Deck of cards.

Sometimes, you have to put the entire deck of cards on the table…

You gotta show your hand.

It’s very uncomfortable…

I can tell you that.

Professionally. Personally.

Sleepless nights. Nearly every night.

You will be tested.

Self-doubt will creep through your core.

“Was it… Or, is it worth it?”

However though, comfort is the easy way.

Doing as you’re told is less stressful because it often absolves you from full accountability.

Being provided with a task does not bear the same culpability, as delegating a task.

There is a different level of responsibility involved when coordinating a meeting versus just being an attendee. Additionally, there are usually more attendees than coordinators.

Even less managers and directors.

And fewer executives.

Increasing responsibilities and accountability as one progresses in life.

… Ultimately, it’s easier to attend events than to organize one.

You just gotta show up.

– – –

You must play the game before you dictate the rules.

• every teacher was once a student…

Mentorship is essential. Having a strong tribe is imperative. A collective cultivates leaders.

     Male cubs are raised together. However, at a point, as they develop into lions, they must ultimately separate and lead their pride.

The ascension is often treacherous.

– – –

Professionally, I believe few executives’ hands are truly pure. “Clean-from-conflict?” That, I do not believe.

I’m not even referring to illegal activities or malpractices. I am not talking about breaking laws or even organizational policies.

However – albeit large or small, I maintain confidence in at least one significant decision or outcome that went against the moral fiber of the average professional executive.

Perhaps, it were a policy, or a regulation enacted that went against a personal belief.

Say an executive failed to dissent out of concern or fear of retribution. They saw smoke on the horizon, but yet still went along for the ride. 

“Workplace culture,” is essential. Correct?

… Because why isolate yourself due to having a diversity of thought? Having a difference of opinion.

Is it worth it?

– – –

… Or, what about a junior employee whose work an executive leader accepted the credit for?

Or perhaps, a job candidate who was the most accomplished and competent for an open position? However, that top candidate was never truly in consideration for said role.

Additionally, the executive leader’s input was solicited…

Presented with an opportunity to speak up and advocate for an overlooked individual… To potentially effect greater change within the department.

Or, across an entire organization…

Instead, remained silent.

Or, in congruence.

 Well, that isn’t illegal. 

Representation-over-impact is not illegal.

According to law, it is legally justified to establish a diverse group of people who all think the same…

Is it unethical, or immoral? …

Everyone has a different compass.   

– – –

Accepting credit on behalf of another person’s work is not illegal.

Plagiarism is not typically considered to be a criminal or civil offense unless it infringes on an author’s intellectual property rights.

But how does one trademark or copyright an idea? Or, a concept?

That takes money, time, and much effort to apply for a patent, trademark, or copyright.

There have been many notable figures who became successful business entrepreneurs and barons from the ideas and work of lesser-known individuals.  

Big Bank takes little bank.

It is also not against the law, to not advocate on behalf of others while at work. It can certainly feel ‘criminal’ at times, however, it ain’t illegal.

Unfortunately, it’s part of the “game…”

Upward mobility, is a treacherous journey.

There is reason why fewer people are in high positions of influence and power.

Not, everyone will make it to the pinnacle.

Many with competence will instinctively remove themselves from the running.

With, an unwillingness to compromise, or to acquiesce.

… As they would rather sacrifice than accept under false pretense.

Conversely, though, there are some folks fine and willing to be the token in a room.

Others are not. 

I contest that if you’re an executive in a leadership position or any change-making/policy role…

And your subordinates are subjected to facing moral dilemmas, or having to make challenging personal decisions based on their professional work…

As the leader, your hands cannot be clean.

“A fish rots from the head down.”

You are succeeding, meanwhile, others around you are struggling… How is that considered progress?

“A chain is as strong as the weakest link.”

I envision success and impact on my terms. I could never be starstruck or intimidated by another successful individual.

I treat everyone with the same level of respect and decorum. From custodial services to property management to ownership.  

You could be an executive director, vice president, chief officer, president, board member, or trustee. I’mma treat you like a human being.  

I could never bring myself to pedestalize another individual.

I’m not a ‘fan’ of anyone either.

But rather, a supporter, or an admirer of their work.

More than likely… I’m a peer.

In the flesh.

[read the above again… double-entendre]   

– – –

*I can’t get wrapped up in professional people titles…

I’d rather learn about the impact and achievements of an individual, or a group.

Who did their teams consist of?

Was it the best collection of talent, reflective and representative of society?

And not, strictly those from within their social background?

Did people around them feel empowered to speak up, and affect change for others?

Or, did they keep individuals who simply affirmed them?

Not those who contested them?

But anew… It is not unlawful to hire people that you like.

Matter of fact, one should be fond of all candidates. That should be a goal. However, it should not be the determining factor.

– – –

I don’t know though … Comfort has never ranked high on my list of personal priorities.

Throughout my existence, I’ve found comfort in discomfort. I’m okay with the unknown. We don’t need to become best friends. Take pride in the work, and yourself, and we will get along just fine. We need not to work the same. We don’t need to look the same. We don’t gotta act the same.

Are you the best at what you do?    

Stability and privilege have felt synonymous to me.

That it is a privilege to have stability.

Unless one is fortunate enough to generate wealth… Or, can acquire an abundance of riches.  

One will always be a poor comment or decision away from losing all they shit.

     errything…

So, if you ain’t never had to encounter serious financial strife, or you ain’t never had to overcome humble beginnings…

what. a. privilege.

But perhaps, you were lower middle class though?

Earning just enough to barely get by. However, more than enough to not be considered impoverished.

For many, the fear of losing everything is consuming.

No one wants to become poor… No one wants to be born poor… And no one wants to stay poor… It just happens. Right?  

Luckily, if you’re unaccustomed to having much, or anything at all. Then the fear of losing everything is rarely dire.

– – –

There’s reason why people with nothing to lose are often most vocal. Often unaware of the implications of their actions. But closed mouths don’t get fed either, so…

“Dear Director-person, I’m not caring about your feelings right now. Not when I know what this policy is gonna do to fuck up the community. How do I know this? … I am from it. You just went to school for it. But as did I.” 

These voices get drowned out quickly. And, these individuals usually don’t elevate past a certain professional level. Keeping it real 100 percent of the time while playing the game, will get you eliminated quickly.   

That’s why it’s treacherous. 

I only write about what I have observed.

Or, personally experienced.

Or, I’m knowledgeable about it.

So, there is this thing… called a “ceiling.” Those who know, understand that it’s been.

This isn’t groundbreaking information.

It’s just real life. 

And I get it, no one enjoys being chastised.

However – I don’t mind being challenged.

Or, being educated by an informed individual.

I only know what I know.

I’m already self-motivated.

But I don’t mind being challenged towards greater.

– – –

I’m not saying that professional coworkers can’t be friends, friendly, acquaintances, or cordial outside of the office. There is no need to be aloof. However, productivity should take precedence over perception. To be, “inclusive” is to be respectful and understanding of all backgrounds.

Not just specific ones.

So, until greater society can fully comprehend the meaning.

We are going to simply need to learn how to fit in.

Unless you’re born with a level of access to resources.

So… Do not enter into the game being, “real.”

 If you try, then you will likely end up stuck outside being a really cold person. So, I suggest you find some guidance.

Find positive mentors. People who can school you on the game.

Especially, those coming from a similar backstory. But also, those coming from the opposite end of the spectrum.  

They’ll hopefully help to prepare you. They can guide you. They’ll support you. But they will also contest you.  

And, it will make you better equipped to navigate and manage any professional, or social discomfort.

Because you will ultimately learn that all ‘that’, is just part of the game. 

And you must play the game before you dictate the rules.

– – –

If, or once you elevate into a position where you can dictate the rules.

Well, that is when life truly becomes uncomfortable.

At the beginning of your career, there is no true discomfort.

More of a nuisance.

For example, you may have to represent something that you might not be at the moment. You aren’t a suit-and-tie type of individual, I get that.

During elevation in your professional career, you will have to become. At least, at certain moments.   

It’s a part of the transition towards becoming a mature adult. Which, is how you show up. Having to transition from athletic attire to business casual. Wingtips and pocket squares. The growth and development from a student to a professional. Which represents a significant mental shift as well.

For many early career professionals, the major job responsibilities typically consist of being told what to do, by work superiors. By the managers and directors.

In the beginning, are often delegated specific tasks needed to be completed.

The main priority early in any career should be to conduct the highest-quality, highest-caliber work, while also being inquisitive. Continually asking questions.

Oh yeah, and not getting fired.

– – –

As we elevate, no longer do the responsibilities lay solely within our duties.

But now, for the greater team.

The department and organization.

It’s not only your job, but others as well.

Become a manager and you will have direct reports.

Elevate to the director, and you will be responsible for planning, preparing, and executing large projects, events, or initiatives.

Executives and board members are usually at the top of the chain of any organizational structure.

However – there is also a reason why,

“A fish rots from the head down.”

Because effective, or ineffective leadership ultimately impacts the long-term success or failure of organizations and institutions.

– – –

Unfortunately, some organizations operate under poor leadership.

Many of their top executives’ hands are most certainly not, “pure.”

This is also not to assert these individuals to be undeserving of their respective positions, either.

Professionally, I’ve seen a copious amount of resumes. I’ve reviewed the gamut of relevant work experience.

I have met individuals with amazing experiences.

Flawless on paper.

However, upon conversation, left me desiring more from them. 

Seldom, have I encountered an individual with robust experience, that is as profound, as their resume entails.

“National Director of, X” … “Regional Manager of Y” … “Board representative for program or organization” …  

All of which, look phenomenal on letterhead.

Yet, let us discourse.

Inquire. How did they elevate to their position? What was their path?

     And, don’t focus solely on the destination. But rather, connect with the journey.

Understand purpose, catalysts, and motivators. Why.

– – –

I find myself to be naturally inquisitive. I’m always going to ask questions. Pointed-questions.

Anytime that I’m in the presence of success, I always want to know, why?

     There have been memorable interactions where I was impressed by the quality of character of an accomplished individual.

Conversely, there were several instances of personal interactions with successful people which left me underwhelmed. 

The experience looked great on the resume.

However, an inability to convey why their experience was even relevant or important. A lack of passion.

Underwhelming.

Truthfully, I do not perceive many leaders to be as such. To be deeply entrenched in their mission. 

Accomplishments are great on any resume.

However, andmore important…What does an accomplished person’s “professional tree” consist of?

Who are the individuals that developed under their guidance, or who elevated with them concurrently?

Which seeds did they plant within others? …

What did their students/pupils/mentees/proteges go on to accomplish within their respective careers? Did they blossom?

And, what level of influence, and role did that leader specifically play in the career and personal development of others?

Professional accomplishments are often personal. Individual-based. Not, usually described through a collective goal. Unless in a team sport. “… I did ABC, and it made X company Y amount.” Rarely is it, “X company made Y amount, and I did Z.”   

Which is completely fine. However, it’s all about ownership, especially with accomplishments. Most leaders are not going to place a company over themselves; contrary to belief. Leaders do not elevate by placing faith in others… Unless they’re privileged. Normally, it is through skill, talent, and effort. For some, the ability to galvanize others comes secondary.   

Elevating into leadership positions will require one to become responsible for the success and growth of other professionals. In addition to themself.

There are “leaders” who don’t know how to effectively lead, or inspire others. Some executives are not required to be people leaders. Especially, if they reached their position based on their connections.  

However, the resume still looks great on paper. Always knew the right people… Took up the right hobbies, cultivated new interests, and developed a common mindset. Because it’s never just about what you know, or what you have done…

But there are the daring few, whose skills are impossible to overlook. “Bully ball,” I call it. Not necessarily tyrannical, however, can take it there when necessary. Nurturing, but also doesn’t settle for excuses, mainly because they’ve also done the work. They made sacrifices. And while they may be feared by some, they have respect and/or admiration from most. 

     For myself, these are also the types of leaders who I best connect with. Those unbeholden to other people’s feelings. Those with a similar backstory of tough love. Ultimately, with these types of individuals who elevate into influential roles, I need to learn where their rub occurred.

     When did they assume the reins?  

– – –

There will always be particular candidates who are accomplished and competent to serve in a leadership capacity but yet are never provided with genuine opportunities. Or, an opportunity.

“It is not what you know, it is who you know.”

… Candidly, I was judgmental in my youth. And I condemned those whom I felt did not keep it “real”. Especially, by the elders.

But as I infer to “real,” I am not referring to speaking in slang, or how an individual presents.

Moreso, in regards to advocacy and support of others. Especially, those from similar communities. Speaking up for a colleague.

By giving a person or group their due credit when they might not otherwise receive it.

By also showcasing pride in their heritage, culture, and community.

Not, through seeking assimilation.

That is what “keeping it real”, meant to me. Taking full pride in one’s background. That was real to me.  

Real was never projected as ignorant, or ignant. But rather, as assured and confident. With an unwillingness to acquiesce.

Speaking clearly and articulately was never “talking white.” Everyone has an accent. I never conflated the colloquial “real” from the formal. I never equated real with the lowest common denominator. But instead, to the greatest factor.

     When I was younger, I expected those with power and influence to speak up, professionally. Never, to become content with just being inside the room.

     As I matured, I grew to honestly understand that since we’re all from different environments, and have different backgrounds; “professionalism” standardizes everything. Often, at the cost of individuality.   

     Professionalism alleviates having to learn about another culture. Because what if each employee showed up to work in their native country’s attire?

     Instead, we adapt. We all must learn to fit in. This is called, “workplace culture.”

We must play the game before we can dictate the rules.

And, who created the rules? The original rules.

… Why is what I’m doing considered, wrong?Especially, if it leads to greater results.  

     I have learned that you will never change the rules, without first playing the game.

– – –

So, rock those wingtips young fella…

Boss up. Start your own business. Then, you can wear your designer sneakers to work.

However, you gotta learn how to successfully operate a business, as well. It often takes seeing how all of the pieces fit together.

There are many strategies for “upward mobility.”  That is why the terrain can be treacherous. So, you must remain calculated at all times.

You must understand when it’s the right time to speak up or speak out. You should be intentional with how you navigate any opportunity throughout your career, or in your personal life.

     You must dare to be different. And, if “different” is in fact who you are, then you must fully embrace it. However, do realize, that it may also limit your opportunities as a result.

Ultimately though, the greatest opportunity will present itself at the ideal time. Remain patient.

Be humble, or not. That is on you. It does not affect me, as I already know who I am.

Hopefully one day you can elevate to a higher status in your career. Or, that you can simply level up within your own life, and can create positive change. Not only for yourself but hopefully, for others around you as well.

– – –

I long thought much about the “journey…”

What the terrain had consisted of:

     School, friends, family, relationships, society,

culture, history, identity, work, and office politiks.

All of it.

     The peaks and valleys. The highs-and-lows. Success, and the unfortunate lessons learned.

The harsh realizations and the difficult conversations.

     Times with humor upon moments of grief.

     “We laugh to keep from crying…”

     Early mornings following sleepless nights.

     “Up just thinking aloud…”

Then I thought to myself, “How can I write about all of this?”

The journey and the terrain.

Especially, as I’m still en route…

– – –

I worked endlessly throughout my entire life. I made great sacrifices not just for my work, but more importantly, for the values that I believe in.  

     I have attended several public talks throughout my life. Featuring many notable speakers and distinguished individuals. What I took away from many of those events; those experiences, was that they rarely got as, “real” as I would have preferred.

     Especially, the presentations by individuals who looked like me. It felt like many were placating to the audience. Slightly more honest, but never truly real. And, it’s difficult to properly encapsulate via text, but one can feel it, intrinsically.

     I can appreciate someone’s complete transparency as I truly do value honesty. I love real.  

     Some prefer to keep their guard up. Especially those in leadership positions. The presumption is that we must project as strong-willed yet composed at all times. Which, to a large extent, is perhaps most wise to do.

     However, leaders are also human.

Each teacher was once a student.

Every boss was once just an employee.

Every leader was once a follower; a disciple.     

     That is a part of growth and development. Ultimately though, what separates the former from the latter is the commitment.

Dedication. And, the tact.

Too often people remove themselves from the equation, before utilizing the engagement for opportunity.

It’s not easy. It’s treacherous. The outcome could be anticlimactic, if unprepared.

I thought to myself yet AGAIN, “How do I write about this?”

The journey.How can I do it uniquely to me? Creatively.

My first step, getting into a proper mindset. Creating and allowing myself the physical and mental space, to be different.

Through continued reflection on everything.

errything…  

A process that began many years before I ever picked up a pen and a composition book for this body of work.

     Naturally, I don’t like comparisons of my work. I do not know what to compare this to. I don’t even know what this is… It’s just my thoughts. My FreeSense.

     I’m not attempting to meet expectations of “quality writing.” I’m focused on emphasizing a message regardless of the approach and delivery. I write around things creatively.

By being truthful with the literature.

Not, by making it easy for the reader.

No need to convolute meaning with complex messaging. It’s not words that are difficult to comprehend, it’s often the structure. A lack of proper context.

My approach is simple thoughts representing complex ideas.

However, nothing is ever that easy. Even when you truly believe that it is. For my sake, it is not just a disservice, it is flagrant to review anything that I’ve composed, only once.

I wanted to document the process. Elaborate on the terrain. Reflect on the journey. In a manner that should be relatable in the years to follow. Well, hopefully not… Hopefully, society change for the better. However, until then… Below is my:

FreeSense