In their latest press release, the EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) announced that two employees will receive $70,000 after the close of a sexual harassment claim.
The press release briefly describes what these individuals had to endure from their manager. They experienced retaliation, threats, and absolutely appalling behavior in a place where they were supposed to feel safe. And although reading through each of the EEOC's press releases hurts my heart - I continue to do it anyways.
Why you might ask? Because it helps me stay uncomfortable.
Now I know some of you are thinking, "why would anyone want to stay uncomfortable? I hate that feeling and I want nothing to do with it." Now, don't get me wrong, I'm totally with you on that point. But I also believe that we HAVE to make ourselves uncomfortable sometimes.
Now it should be noted that WE are making OURSELVES uncomfortable, not someone else making us feel this way. This is key. Because within our own self-induced non-harming agitation is where we can truly begin to grow, learn, and see the world from a different perspective.
Reading and hearing other peoples stories, as uncomfortable as it makes us feel, is just one way that we can learn from one another. These stories need to be provided willingly. Don't go into the world demanding that people recall their stories just so you can be uncomfortable. That's not the way to do it. But we ready to listen, to really listen.
And if you are lucky enough to hear someone's story, make sure you thank them. Thank them for trusting you. Thank them for coming forward, for being brave. Just thank them.
Now, I'll leave you with this challenge - how can you make yourself feel uncomfortable and what can you learn from it?
-Nikki Larchar
Define the Line co-founder