Fundamentals of Level Three Leadership

69. Leadership and Diversity

Concept

Leaders set the tone for diverse inclusion. Leaders like everyone else have VABEs that shape their views on diversity, inclusiveness, and the value of engaging people who aren’t like them. In my view, leaders should make decisions based on merit and morality. The natural tendency for all humans is to be more open to people who are like them.⁵⁹ John Bradley, formerly of JPMorgan Chase, once noted that “A system left to its own devices will recreate itself.” Let’s assert this as a natural human tendency— but one that has a number of negative consequences.

First, this tendency builds boundaries and enmity between groups. Lack of understanding leads to speculation and rumor mongering.

Second, this tendency precludes ...