There is a lingering and false belief that to get the most out of employees you need to create stress—a belief that people need to feel a little on edge. This fear-based management style is different than a healthy dose of challenging opportunities, high expectations and clear accountability. We have a gross imbalance in the workplace of the two primary forces in life – Yin and Yang. We need BOTH.

I live by the adage that if I’m taking care of myself, I’m in the best position to be of help in the world. I learned from a wise woman many years ago the concept, “What’s right for you is right for everyone.” It has been hard to digest sometimes. Really? It sounds almost too good to be true!
However, I have found it is almost always true.

Last week was a tough week all around. First, the Kavanaugh hearing and subsequent fallout was heart-wrenching and spirit-shattering for everyone. Regardless of which side of the divide you sit on, no one won.
 
As a woman, there was a particular bite to it. It brought to the surface memories of being marginalized in big and small ways. I have spent years pretending a sexist society hasn’t touched me too deeply. I’ve been successful in my career, so I’ve shrugged it off. It’s easy to overlook the subtle ways it stings.