Leading Consciously How to foster belonging: Create a culture of caring, says Dr Beth Kaplan
Mar 12, 2025
Dr. Beth Kaplan, author of "Braving the Workplace" and a leading voice in learning and leadership strategy, highlights the journey toward fostering belonging at work. She emphasizes the difference between belonging and inclusion, sharing insights on personal identity and authenticity. Kaplan discusses setting boundaries, the importance of empathy in leadership, and how personal connections can transform workplace culture. Her compelling anecdotes reflect the power of self-acceptance and the necessity of cultivating caring and connected environments.
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Beth's Childhood Belonging Struggles
- Beth Kaplan grew up feeling like a square peg in a round hole and sought acceptance by trying to please others.
- Her early home was unaccepting, and she learned to manipulate herself to feel belonging.
Belonging vs Inclusion Defined
- Inclusion is a label others assign, but belonging is a feeling you determine for yourself.
- Without belonging to yourself, you're stuck in others' definitions of belonging.
Gym Memberships as Belonging Example
- Beth has three gym memberships with different senses of belonging to each.
- Some gyms bring out different parts of her personally, illustrating varied expressions of belonging.
