Thoughts, Words & Action: Strategies for Minority Federal Employees

In the intricate and often opaque world of the U.S. Federal Government, advancing your career can sometimes feel like navigating a labyrinth. This is especially true for minority employees, who may face additional hurdles and systemic challenges. However, with the right strategies and a clear understanding of the promotion process, you can effectively chart your course to success. Drawing inspiration from diversity advocates like Nelson Mandela, who once said, "It always seems impossible until it's done," this blog aims to equip minority federal employees with the knowledge and tools to navigate the promotion process confidently. In conclusion – and in the words of James Clear, "A lack of self-awareness is poison. Reflection and review is the antidote." By arming yourself with honest self-reflection, a strategic plan, and the wherewithal to execute said plan, you can navigate the promotion process and achieve your career goals in the federal government. Remember, your success not only benefits you but also paves the way for others to follow in your footsteps.

As Jay-Z famously rapped, "I'm not a businessman, I'm a business, man." This mentality of seeing yourself as a valuable entity within your organization can drive your career forward. Tupac Shakur's words, "You gotta make a change. It's time for us as a people to start makin' some changes," resonate with the need for active participation in diversity initiatives to foster a supportive work environment. Finally, Nas's line, "The world is yours," reminds us that despite obstacles, the opportunity for success and advancement is within reach. By arming yourself with knowledge, building strong relationships, and actively participating in diversity initiatives, you can navigate the promotion process and achieve your career goals in the federal government. Remember, your success and your dreams not only benefit you but also pave the way for others to follow in your footsteps. As Langston Hughes wrote, "Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken-winged bird that cannot fly." Stay focused, stay motivated, and stay unlocked!

The Power of Thoughts

Our thoughts lay the foundation for our actions and aspirations. Frederick Douglass once declared, "Without a struggle, there can be no progress." This sentiment resonates deeply with the challenges many of us face in the workplace. However, it's through these challenges that our thoughts crystallize into determination and resilience, propelling us forward in our careers. The struggles we face in our everyday work shouldn’t give us permission to affect our thoughts, which can eventually affect our words and actions. Having emotions about work is natural and okay, but we must remember in all things, we have a choice. We choose to allow this feeling to either be a reason to be upset, sad, or down, or we can decide to use this issue at work as a setup for a comeback and an opportunity to make things anew.

Consider the story of Ursula Burns, former CEO of Xerox Corporation, who rose from humble beginnings to become a trailblazer in the business world. Her unwavering belief in her capabilities and her vision transformed her thoughts into action, paving the way for her historic leadership role. Ms. Burns served as CEO from 2009 to 2016, making her the first black woman to lead a Fortune 500 company. She started with Xerox in 1980 as a summer intern and eventually ran the entire business empire. In 2014, Forbes recognized her as the 22nd most powerful woman in the world. Her success is a testament to her hard work and determination, and the positive thoughts she nurtured enabled her to have the vision to see her destiny as a possibility when no other Black woman had been in that space before. Her 2021 memoir, "Where You Are Is Not Who You Are," serves as a reminder that our circumstances do not define us and that we can achieve greatness and believe in our dreams without limitations. To believe, you must see, and before you see, it must first be a thought.

The Influence of Words

Our words possess the power to uplift, inspire, and effect change. Maya Angelou once remarked, "Words are things. You must be careful, careful about calling people out of their names, using racial or sexual pejoratives, and all that ignorance. Don't do that. Someday we'll be able to measure the power of words." She understood that words have power and can affect how someone feels about themselves. Remember the saying, "sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never affect me"? Oh, they affect you. Words tend to physically hurt less than a stick or stone, but it's hard to see the pain caused by words on someone’s soul and how it can affect their actions. This is why it's important for us to be careful with the language we use, not just in our everyday lives but particularly in our working environments.

Consider the legacy of former first lady Michelle Obama, whose eloquence and advocacy have ignited movements and reshaped narratives. Through her words, she empowers individuals to challenge the status quo and strive for excellence, both in their personal and professional lives. How can we tap into this? Through self-reflection. Use your words to give yourself confidence in your abilities and to further define who you are. Michelle Obama once said, “If you don’t get out there and define yourself, you’ll be quickly and inaccurately defined by others.” When you know who you are and where you are going, no one can steer you in the wrong direction. Take time to learn about yourself. Through the influence of words, that can mean literally going for long walks and having an honest discussion with yourself. Through these positive discussions, you can further define who you are, what you are about, and what direction you want to go in. When it's time to put in the required action, it will be directed towards the right things to propel you in the right direction. As Black and minority folks, we have no time to mess around—we have to get to it! And in the spirit of getting right to it, let’s talk action!

Action as the Catalyst for Success

Action is the bridge between aspiration and achievement. Madame C.J. Walker once stated, "I got my start by giving myself a start." This entrepreneurial spirit underscores the importance of taking initiative and seizing opportunities to drive progress in our careers.

Reflect on the legacy of Robert F. Smith, founder and CEO of Vista Equity Partners, whose transformative actions have reshaped the landscape of technology investment. His unwavering commitment to innovation and inclusion serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders. Robert F. Smith had a prophetic quote on vision and manifestation as it relates to action. He stated, “Have the vision of what you want to become, but you have to put consistent action behind that vision in order for that to manifest.” If you can set up a system that will allow you to have discipline and consistency around the actions required to make your vision a reality, there is no limit.

In a 2020 commencement speech, Beyonce gave graduates a message about intentionality and action, when she said, “Don’t talk about what you’re going to do. Don’t just dream about what you’re going to do. Don’t criticize somebody else for what they’re not doing. You be it. Be about it. Be about that action and go do it. Keep your eye on your intention.”

Navigating Career Trajectories

In the intricate tapestry of career trajectories, resilience and adaptability are paramount. As Angela Davis once said, "I am no longer accepting the things I cannot change. I am changing the things I cannot accept." This ethos underscores the importance of proactively shaping our professional destinies, even in the face of adversity.

Consider the journey of Thurgood Marshall, whose tireless advocacy for civil rights and equality paved the way for generations of Black professionals. His steadfast commitment to justice and equality serves as a timeless reminder of the power of purpose-driven action in shaping societal change.

Conclusion

As we explore the interplay between thoughts, words, and actions, let us heed the wisdom of Lao Tzu, who famously said, "Watch your thoughts, they become your words; watch your words, they become your actions; watch your actions, they become your habits; watch your habits, they become your character; watch your character, it becomes your destiny."

For Black and minority Federal Government employees, our thoughts, words, and actions serve as catalysts for our career advancement. Embrace the power of resilience, advocacy, and purpose-driven action as you navigate the complexities of professional life.

Takeaway 1: Cultivate a mindset of resilience and determination, for our thoughts shape our reality.

Takeaway 2: Harness the power of words to inspire change and drive progress in your career journey.

Takeaway 3: Let your actions speak volumes, for they are the vehicles that propel you toward your professional aspirations.

Together, let us unlock the full potential of our careers and pave the way for a brighter future. Stay focused, stay motivated, and stay unlocked!

If you want more - go check out my podcast - 'BLACK OFFICE UNLOCKED' found on the ALIVE Podcast Network or anywhere you find podcasts in the Galaxy!