The Power of Words and the Light Within Us

In the whirlwind of daily responsibilities and the constant buzz of professional life, there are moments when we need to pause, reflect, and share something meaningful. Today is one of those moments for me.

Recently, I've been quieter than usual on social media, dedicating my energy to my team and our critical projects. But an event I witnessed reminded me of a fundamental truth we often overlook: As leaders, our words carry immense power. They have the ability to shape perceptions, influence emotions, and even change lives.

This realization brings me to a topic close to my heart – neurodiversity, and specifically, ADHD. Many of you know that I proudly live with ADHD, a condition that's often misunderstood and, unfortunately, still carries a significant stigma in our society.

Yet, when I contemplate my greatest strengths, I can't help but recognize how intrinsically they're linked to my ADHD.

Recently, during the DNC, we saw a touching moment: the son of Tim Walz, the Democratic VP nominee, reacting emotionally to his father's speech. This 17-year-old boy, living with a non-verbal learning disability, ADHD, and anxiety, jumped up with tears flowing, exclaiming, "That's my dad!"

This beautiful moment resonated deeply with me. Like the Walz family, my parents struggled with fertility before adopting me at birth. I was born with club feet and later diagnosed with ADHD. Perhaps not the child they expected, but one they loved unconditionally.

My journey, like that of the Walz family, highlights the importance of acceptance and understanding. Unfortunately, not everyone shares this perspective.

In our society, there are those who find joy in mocking and belittling individuals with disabilities, whether mental or physical. These behaviors reveal the smallness of their minds and the work we still need to do.

As someone who has experienced both the challenges and gifts of neurodiversity, I feel compelled to speak out. It's crucial that we, as leaders and as human beings, remember three key points:

1. Our words have power. They can uplift or destroy, inspire or discourage. We must use them wisely.
2. We have the chance to be better than we were yesterday. Growth and learning are ongoing processes, especially in understanding and embracing diversity.
3. As leaders, we're called to inspire others to find their own light. This means creating environments where all individuals, regardless of their differences, can thrive.

To my fellow neurodivergent leaders and friends, known and unknown: Don't let the world dim your light because others' minds are too small to see through our eyes. We're different because we were born to be different.

Remember, the most profound human feelings are love, acceptance, and belonging. If this isn't the light you bring into the world, you're not ready to lead. Only those who illuminate others can guide those still searching for their light.

Chandler J. Lewis | Managing Director | 360 Social Impact Studios

#Neurodiversity #Leadership #Inclusion #ADHD