Lonely in Diver(sea)ty .

'The Rainbow Fish' by Marcus Pfister is a classic read. If you have had a chance to read it, you would very well relate to having something in plenty and not wanting to share it with others. You don't want to lose it all. And not at once. It is daunting to make a choice between your self pride and making connections with others by putting it aside and reaching out. When in a lonely space, we really understand the importance of sharing and caring for each other.

We all feel lonely at some point in time. How does it feel to be in that space? Terrible and pathetic. Trapped and stressed. Angst and curled up.

If we know it is temporary due to fast paced changing life situations, it gives up hope to cope and to overcome the feeling. But if we can't change the situation ever and we are bound to stay in it, it leaves a drastic impact on physical, emotional and social well being

The Rainbow Fish was fortunate as every other fish noticed it and wanted a part of her multi colored beautiful scales. What if the Rainbow Fish was left to herself for being unique and different? 

We generally tend to associate loneliness with specific groups, elderly, disabled, ethnic groups but in reality it is more subtle and can affect anyone at anytime. How much sociable your work culture might be, there are likely to be some lonely employees and they are an easy miss. For many individuals and groups being told they are different has a detrimental effect on their well being and more so pushing them towards loneliness as they think it means they don't fit well.

Does hiring people of colour or more women in workforce a true picture of diversity? Can there be diversity without belongingness? Does regular check-ins help reduce check-outs in an organisation?

In the Sea of diverse people, it is highly likely to not see, hear and feel a few. But these few still make up the organisation. It is vital to make belongingness a common practice at work. 

As a teacher, I am mindful of my role in making or shattering personalities. Vital to any mankind, nurturing is a best possible way to preserve of what is desired. The role of teacher in a classroom reflects the society created outside and therefore as a practice I am cautious of every move supporting or blocking the view of my student, every opportunity created or lost and every step closer towards 'Us' from 'Me' or 'You'.

If you are keen to read more about Diversity, Inclusion and Belongingness, here are a few recommendations.

Belonging -Katheryn Jacob, Sue Unerman and Mark Edwards

Hungry Hearts - Contributions by Various

Disclaimer : The opinions expressed in this article are solely of the author. 

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