Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in a Shifting Landscape: A Strategic Approach

Disclaimer: This is not a political post but rather a guide to help organizations navigate sudden changes effectively.

In recent weeks, we’ve seen a growing trend of large companies eliminating their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in response to President Trump’s executive order. This directive requires federal programs and federally funded organizations to remove DEI initiatives to maintain funding. As a result, employees are being laid off, and many are experiencing heightened concerns about their physical and psychological safety at work. Company morale is taking a serious hit, and organizations are scrambling to adapt to these abrupt changes.

But what if eliminating DEI initiatives isn’t the only option? Businesses have successfully adapted to shifting economic conditions, mergers, and market trends in the past—why not take a strategic approach here as well? Rather than dismantling efforts to foster an inclusive work environment, companies can pivot and restructure these initiatives to maintain their core values while aligning with new regulations.

The Evolution of DEI in Business

When DEI first gained traction in the corporate world, organizations introduced programs to create more inclusive workplaces. Over time, this evolved into DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) as businesses recognized the importance of cultivating a culture where employees truly feel they belong. Now, with changing regulations, companies must take a nuanced approach rather than making reactionary decisions.

A Solution: Strategic Wordplay

Instead of eliminating DEI programs altogether, businesses can adapt through strategic wordplay—modifying language while maintaining the same fundamental goals. According to the Oxford Dictionary, wordplay is "the witty exploitation of the meanings and ambiguities of words, especially in puns." While this situation is no laughing matter, the concept applies: by shifting language, organizations can continue their initiatives without conflict.

Reframing DEI Statements

Consider the following traditional DEI commitment statement:

“At [Company Name], we are deeply committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential, regardless of their background, identity, or experiences. We actively seek out diverse perspectives in our hiring practices, provide ongoing training to address unconscious bias, and cultivate an environment where all voices are heard and considered.”

This can be reworded to align with new regulations while maintaining its intent:

“At [Company Name], we are committed to fostering a workplace culture built on respect, collaboration, and opportunity for all. We believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation, strengthen teams, and create an environment where all employees can thrive.”

Alternative Terminology for DEI Initiatives

Organizations can rename their DEI programs to emphasize business performance, workplace excellence, and opportunity while preserving their mission. Here are some alternative names:

Performance & Culture Focused:

• Workplace Excellence & Belonging (WEB)

• Inclusive Leadership & Workforce Success

• Talent Development & Workplace Innovation

• Culture, Collaboration & Growth (CCG)

• Workforce Engagement & Success (WES)

Business & Talent Development Oriented:

• Talent & Leadership Development (TLD)

• Opportunity & Advancement Initiative (OAI)

• People & Culture Strategy (PCS)

• Employee Success & Organizational Growth

• Workforce Optimization & Development (WOD)

Compliance & Organizational Strength Focused:

• Equitable Workplace Practices (EWP)

• Organizational Effectiveness & Workforce Strategy (OEWS)

• Fair & Inclusive Talent Strategy (FITS)

• Workplace Integrity & Employee Experience (WIEE)

• Merit-Based Growth & Engagement (MBGE)

Strategies for Maintaining an Inclusive Workplace

Beyond rebranding, organizations can implement strategies that reinforce inclusivity while aligning with new policies. Here’s how:

1. Emphasize Universal Values and Merit-Based Initiatives

Focus on core values such as respect, collaboration, and integrity. Develop merit-based programs that ensure equal opportunity based on performance and potential.

2. Implement Comprehensive Employee Development Programs

Offer training and mentorship programs accessible to all employees. Provide wellness and support services to address diverse workforce needs.

3. Adopt Inclusive Language and Practices

Use neutral terms like “employee engagement,” “workplace culture,” or “organizational development.” Ensure company policies promote fairness and equal treatment.

4. Engage in Community and Cultural Programs

Support cultural celebrations that recognize diverse backgrounds without formal DEI labeling. Participate in community outreach to reinforce social responsibility.

5. Consult Legal and HR Experts

Regularly review policies with legal and HR professionals to maintain compliance. Conduct risk assessments to align existing programs with new directives.

The Path Forward

By integrating these strategies, organizations can continue fostering inclusive and equitable workplaces without violating new regulations. Instead of abandoning DEI altogether, companies can reframe, restructure, and reinforce their commitment to creating a workplace where all employees thrive.

Let’s work together to adapt and empower our employees while ensuring our organizations remain strong and forward-thinking in this changing landscape.

Heather Ritson

Career Coach & Trainer

Founder of Phoenix Empower, LLC

419-957-1539

heather@phoenixempowerllc.com

www.phoenixempowerllc.com

Unlearn “Unlearn”: Why Relearning is the Key to True Transformation

Today, organizations and professionals frequently advocate for “unlearning.” According to the Oxford Dictionary, unlearning is the act of “discard (something learned, especially a bad habit or false or outdated information) from one's memory.” While the idea sounds promising, the reality is far more complex.

The Problem with Unlearning

Forcing a leader, professional, or an entire organization to unlearn deeply ingrained behaviors and beliefs is nearly impossible—unless you have a futuristic memory-erasing machine. And if you’re trying to apply this concept across a whole organizational system, you’d need a massive, high-efficiency version of that machine. Sounds like science fiction, doesn’t it?

As humans, our experiences shape our perceptions, behaviors, and decision-making processes. These lived experiences contribute to our identity, and attempting to erase them is not only unrealistic but can also cultivate a toxic organizational culture. Expecting employees or leaders to “forget” past behaviors without acknowledging them disregards the valuable lessons those experiences offer.

The Power of Relearning

Instead of focusing on unlearning, the real growth lies in RELEARNING. The Cambridge Dictionary defines relearning as “to learn again; to learn how to do something again.” This concept respects past experiences while encouraging the development of new perspectives and behaviors.

Why is relearning more effective? Because it acknowledges that even negative experiences carry value—they offer insights into personal growth and development.

Example: Transforming Leadership Styles

Consider a high-level executive who has long adopted an authoritarian leadership style—frequently raising their voice at staff for missed deadlines or unresolved product issues. Expecting this leader to unlearn their reactive behavior means asking them to erase years of conditioned responses.

However, relearning invites a different approach. It allows the executive to:

1. Acknowledge past behaviors.

2. Reflect on the impact these behaviors had on team morale and productivity.

3. Adapt by developing new, constructive ways to handle high-pressure situations.

Rather than erasing the past, the leader builds upon it, fostering emotional intelligence and empathy—key traits of modern leadership.

Creating Safe Spaces for Relearning

Successful transformation requires an environment where individuals feel safe to reflect, grow, and experiment. Whether it’s through executive coaching, workshops, or team-building initiatives, creating spaces for self-reflection accelerates meaningful change.

When leaders and employees are empowered to take ownership of their personal and professional growth, the changes they make are more likely to stick. They develop sustainable habits, leading to long-term success—not just temporary fixes.

The Role of Accountability in Relearning

Relearning isn’t just about personal growth—it’s about fostering accountability. The executive who once raised their voice at employees can now look back, recognize the emotional toll it took on the team, and use that insight to lead with empathy. This transformation not only improves workplace culture but also positions the leader as a mentor, guiding others away from similar pitfalls.

Unlike unlearning, which demands forgetting the past, relearning encourages responsibility—owning past behaviors while committing to improvement. This approach doesn’t just change individuals; it reshapes organizational culture, promoting transparency, growth, and innovation.

Why Relearning Drives Lasting Organizational Change

When leaders model relearning, they create ripple effects throughout the organization:

• Enhanced Team Collaboration: Leaders who relearn foster open communication and trust.

• Increased Employee Engagement: Employees feel valued when leaders acknowledge past mistakes and work toward positive change.

• A Culture of Continuous Improvement: Organizations thrive when growth is seen as an ongoing journey, not a one-time event.

Final Thoughts

In a world that’s constantly evolving, relearning offers a more authentic and sustainable path to personal and organizational transformation. It respects past experiences, encourages growth, and fosters accountability—laying the foundation for stronger leadership and resilient company cultures.

So, instead of focusing on how to unlearn outdated habits, ask yourself: “How can I relearn and evolve?”

Embrace the past. Shape the future. That’s the power of relearning.

_______________________________________________________________

Heather Ritson

Career Coach & Trainer

Founder of Phoenix Empower, LLC

419-957-1539

heather@phoenixempowerllc.com

www.phoenixempowerllc.com

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome & Stepping Into Your Power

“Follow the guidance of your inner guru.”

After our family dinner of takeout last night, I opened up my fortune cookie that read “Follow the guidance of your inner guru.” I know these fortunes are mass-printed and produced in factories, but sometimes the universe has a way of speaking to you. 

The last few months I have been on a journey of discovery and finding myself again. When I go through big life changes, I tend to question myself and my abilities. I tell myself “Do you even know what you are doing?”, “Are you good enough?” 

Then I opened this fortune cookie, and as silly as it may have been, it was like a cloud completely lifted. This is not the first time I have had this feeling of self-doubt. During major transitions in my life, that inner monster comes through and takes over. Starting a new job, graduating from a program, starting a new business, diving further into growing that business, applying for jobs, being given bigger responsibilities at work, etc. That inner self-doubt monster creeps in and a lot of times I can talk with my mentor or coach and get out of it, but occasionally it takes control so hard and I am the only one that can pull myself out. 

If you have ever felt like this and that you don’t belong at the table—even when you’ve earned your seat and have the skills and experience? That’s imposter syndrome talking.

It’s the voice that whispers:
❌ “I’m not qualified enough.”
❌ “I just got lucky.”
❌ “Someone is going to find out I don’t belong here.”

❌ “You can’t do this.”

The truth? You do belong. However, imposter syndrome can keep even the most talented professionals stuck in self-doubt instead of stepping into their full potential.

So how do you silence that voice and step into your power? Here are some tips that have helped not only me but all my clients who have gone through the same thing.

✅ Recognize it for what it is – Imposter syndrome isn’t a sign of incompetence; it’s a sign of growth. High achievers experience it because they are constantly pushing themselves. When you start pushing yourself past your comfort and normal, it opens space for growth – and that self-doubt monster.

✅ Reframe your thoughts – Instead of thinking, "I don't know enough," try "I'm open to learning and growing." When we are open to learning and growing, and allow ourselves grace when things aren’t perfect or when we need to ask for support or guidance in a new space, it helps squash those thoughts and feelings of self-doubt. Your expertise is valuable—own it! 

✅ Collect the receipts – Journaling isn’t just a tool for mental health, experienced leaders and professionals keep journals to not only track their progress but be able to reflect on moments of learning and growth. Keep a ‘win file’ of compliments, achievements, and successes to remind yourself that you are capable and deserving. 

✅ Speak it out loud – Talk to a mentor, coach, or peer. You’ll quickly realize that imposter syndrome is more common than you think, and support can help you shift your perspective. Speaking with my mentors or when I am supporting a client, that inner self-doubt monster tends to lift a lot quicker than when you are trying to navigate it alone. 

✅ Take action despite self-doubt – Confidence comes from doing. The more you show up, the more your brain will recognize that you are worthy. Make a list of things that you want to do or accomplish in the next few days. Every time you check something off your list, reward yourself with something that brings you joy like spending quality time with your children, partner, or friends, buying yourself a coffee or latte from a coffee shop, or eating a piece of your favorite candy. No matter how big or small, celebrate those small wins. When we celebrate and reward ourselves for completing tasks, it sends good hormones and signals to our brains that release dopamine, serotonin, endorphins, and oxytocin, or the feel-good, happy chemicals that our body naturally releases, which ultimately help you get out of your funk. 

If imposter syndrome has ever held you back, remember this: You are not an imposter. You are a work in progress, just like everyone else.

Have you ever experienced imposter syndrome? Let us know in the comments.

💡 Want to take your confidence to the next level? Download my free Career Growth Guide https://www.phoenixempowerllc.com/resources for actionable strategies to overcome self-doubt and own your success! If you need support, reach out to your coach. Don’t have a coach? Contact me to schedule a free coaching consultation at heather@phoenixempowerllc.com.

#CareerGrowth #ImposterSyndrome #ProfessionalDevelopment #Leadership #Confidence #Mindset #SelfGrowth

The Power of Journaling: Unlocking Mindfulness, Processing, and Mental Health Benefits

In a fast-paced world where stress and anxiety often dominate our lives, finding effective ways to manage our mental health is essential. One simple yet powerful tool that has stood the test of time is journaling. Far more than just putting pen to paper, journaling serves as a gateway to mindfulness, emotional processing, and overall mental well-being.

When I have a client that is trying to take control of their stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health symptoms, whether work or life-related, one of the first coping mechanisms that I recommend them to implement is journaling. This tried and true method has helped hundreds of my clients over the years. Journaling works because it forces our minds to slow down and process what we are experiencing both internally and externally factors.

“But what if I hate writing?” — I get asked this question all the time. I tell my clients that journaling does not have to be a physical journal with lines in it. Journaling can look like talking through a voice memo on your phone that you can delete later. Another way to journal is through art with doodling, painting, drawing, or scrapbooking. There is no right or wrong way to journal because no matter what method you choose, you are still slowing down, reflecting, processing, and working through your thoughts, feelings, and emotions. These secondary options are also a great way to journal if there are concerns for safety with a traditional journal, for example, if you are scared an abusive partner or family member might discover them.

The Mindfulness Connection
Mindfulness is the practice of staying present and fully engaged with the current moment. Journaling fosters mindfulness by encouraging you to slow down, reflect, and observe your thoughts without judgment. When you write about your day, your feelings, or specific events, you bring your attention to the here and now. This practice helps reduce overthinking and increases awareness, creating a calm, focused mind.

Moreover, journaling can serve as a mindfulness anchor, helping you notice patterns in your thoughts, behaviors, and emotional responses. By regularly documenting your experiences, you cultivate greater self-awareness, which is key to mindfulness. Writing allows you to pause, breathe, and engage with your emotions thoughtfully, rather than reacting impulsively. It transforms fleeting thoughts into tangible reflections, fostering a deeper connection with your inner self and enhancing your ability to live intentionally.

Processing Emotions Through Words
Life can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to suppress or ignore difficult emotions. Journaling provides a safe, non-judgmental space to process these feelings. By articulating your emotions, you gain clarity and a deeper understanding of your inner world. Whether you're grappling with grief, anxiety, or excitement, writing allows you to untangle complex thoughts and make sense of your experiences.

Journaling acts as a mirror, reflecting your emotional landscape in a way that helps you identify, acknowledge, and validate your feelings. When you write about what’s bothering you, it externalizes the emotion, making it more manageable and less overwhelming. This process can uncover hidden triggers, patterns of thought, and recurring themes in your emotional responses, offering insight into how certain situations affect you.

Additionally, transforming raw emotions into words provides a sense of release and relief. It shifts emotions from abstract, overwhelming sensations to concrete, organized expressions. This cognitive restructuring helps reframe negative thoughts, promotes problem-solving, and fosters resilience. Over time, journaling builds emotional intelligence, equipping you with the tools to navigate future challenges with greater clarity and self-compassion.

Mental Health Benefits of Journaling

Whether you journal once a day, once a week, or pull it out as you need it from your toolbox of positive coping mechanisms, there are many benefits of journaling for your mental health.

Journaling offers a wide range of mental health benefits that support emotional well-being and psychological resilience. One of the most significant advantages is stress reduction. By writing about stressful situations, individuals can process their emotions, gain perspective, and release built-up tension. This act of expressive writing can lower cortisol levels, the body's primary stress hormone, leading to a calmer, more balanced state of mind.

Another key benefit is improved mood. Journaling has been shown to enhance feelings of happiness and satisfaction by fostering gratitude and self-reflection. Regularly acknowledging positive experiences, accomplishments, and personal growth can shift focus away from negative thoughts, promoting a more optimistic outlook on life.

Journaling also enhances self-awareness, which is crucial for mental health. Through reflection, individuals can identify patterns in their thoughts, behaviors, and emotional reactions. This increased awareness leads to greater understanding of oneself, improved emotional regulation, and the ability to make intentional, positive changes.

Moreover, journaling strengthens problem-solving skills. Writing helps organize thoughts, clarify goals, and explore different perspectives. This cognitive process can uncover new solutions to challenges and promote a proactive approach to life's obstacles.

Lastly, journaling supports emotional regulation by providing a healthy outlet for expressing and processing feelings. It helps individuals understand the root causes of their emotions, reduces the intensity of negative feelings, and fosters resilience in the face of adversity. By consistently engaging in this practice, individuals build emotional strength and a greater capacity to cope with life's ups and downs.

How to Start Journaling for Mental Health

Not sure where to begin? Here are a few tips to help you get started:

1. Set a Routine: Dedicate a few minutes each day to write, even if it’s just a few sentences.

2. Be Honest: Don’t censor yourself. Authenticity fosters healing.

3. Use Prompts: If you're unsure where to start, prompts like "What am I grateful for today?" or "What emotions did I experience today?" or “I am feeling ___ because ___.” can help guide you.

4. Focus on the Process: The goal isn’t perfection—it’s self-expression and growth.

Final Thoughts
Journaling is more than a habit; it's a form of self-care. By cultivating mindfulness, processing emotions, and supporting mental health, journaling becomes a transformative practice. Whether you're new to journaling or a seasoned writer, remember that every word you write is a step toward a healthier, more mindful you.

Ready to start your journaling journey? Explore our Healing Journal at Phoenix Empower, LLC, designed to guide you through transformative prompts for self-discovery and mental wellness.

Needing additional support? email heather@phoenixempowerllc.com or fill out a contact form available on our website to schedule a free consultation for coaching services.