Welcome!
By joining me here, you’re tapping into a movement. Did you know that?
A growing number of companies are realizing the power of compassion in the workplace. It’s not about being “nice.” It’s about relating to people as people–elevating interactions so everyone is respected, appreciated, and knows they are being seen and heard.
Each week with Niki’s Notes, I share news, info, and perspectives on the changing face of work: where it fits into our lives, what people expect from their companies and colleagues, and how leaders can align their styles with the wants and needs of today’s talent.
Stories to Help You Lead
- Have you seen the film Origin yet? It’s a 2023 biographical drama written and directed by Ava DuVernay. It is based on the life of Isabel Wilkerson as she researches and writes her way into redefining much of what we call racism into caste-ism with her book Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents. I mention it because the film does a tremendous job depicting how utterly dehumanizing institutional biases are, not just for the victimized people, but for all of us. I must warn you, the visuals are gut-wrenching. I’m still haunted, and yet thankful to have invested time with this film.
- Managing emotions is a key factor for success in any area of life. What happens when you feel rage? Hilary Jacobs Hendel and Juli Fraga say don’t bury it, process it in this piece for NPR.
- Tired of pursuing happiness? Monica Parker, founder of HATCH and author of “The Power of Wonder,” says we should seek “wonder” instead. She’s got a point, see if this helps you.
- Compassionate workplaces are profitable. Lower turnover, better productivity. For more examples of this, check out this story by Kevin Kruse about DocuSign’s culture and how they develop their leaders.
- And Walmart is embracing the compassionate workplace mission with national training programs for its managers.
- PA Consulting surveyed 300 business leaders in Europe, the UK, and the US. Almost 70% said they “urgently” need to refine their leadership approach. Almost 80% said their employees, customers, and investors are increasingly looking for them to “demonstrate behaviors that drive wider social value.” Read about how CEOs are redefining their roles to meet growing pressure to deliver what today’s stakeholders value.
- What happens when a new hire makes more than the existing employees doing equivalent jobs? It’s not good. The Harvard Business Review tells why.
You Never Know…
I received several positive comments about the “You Never Know” feature that debuted here last week. This week, I’m sharing about sociopaths. There are millions of them. If you haven’t worked with them yet, statistically you will likely encounter them in the workplace and everywhere else.
Most of us first learn about this disorder when we are trying to figure out what’s up with a difficult person. As we dig deeper, we come upon the social disorder spectrum that includes narcissism, borderline personality disorder, and psychopathy. Seldom do we get to learn about sociopathy from a sociopath. Here’s Patric Gagne’s own story of how she came to realize she was different and what it means for the rest of us.
Do Good Spotlight
🌟 Action Against Hunger 🌟
For 40+ years, Action Against Hunger has taken decisive action against the causes and effects of hunger. They’re a top-rated charity on Charity Navigator and Charity Watch as well as a recipient of 2023 Platinum Transparency Candid Seal. Learn more about what they do: Action Against Hunger.
Thanks, Domenick D’Agostino, for sharing this organization!
Noteworthy 🖋
AI for the People
I discovered Mutale Nkonde and her nonprofit AI for the People (AFP) through TechCrunch’s new initiative to focus on women who have/are contributing to the AI revolution.
AFP works to increase the number of Black voices in tech. Before launching AFP, Mutale helped introduce the Algorithmic and Deep Fakes Algorithmic Acts to the U.S. House of Representatives. She also helped introduce the No Biometric Barriers to Housing Act there too.
💞 Compassionate Workplaces Intention Pod
The intention pod is growing! Join us to use the first 15 minutes of the workweek to quietly think about how to infuse higher thinking and better behaviors into your workplace. Very simple format: join the Zoom, say hello, quietly set your intention as the rest of us do the same, and then head off for the week refreshed and refocused. 9:00-9:15 a.m. ET each Monday. Email me for the Zoom link. We’d love to have you as part of our pod.
On a Personal Note
- We’ve all heard horror stories of stolen phones leading to depleted bank accounts, identity theft, and more. Apple’s got fixes. Update to 17.3 and follow these steps for better protection.
