Why Inclusion Starts in the Mirror

A few days ago, I saw a video of a toddler watching his dad shave. No words were spoken. No instructions were given. Just a quiet moment, and perfect imitation.

He stood beside his father, mimicking every move with a plastic razor. Same stance. Same strokes. Same concentration.

It made me smile. And then it made me think:

This is leadership.

People mirror what they see. Not what they’re told. And that includes how we lead inclusively.

💡 You’re being watched (in the best way).

Whether you’re an executive, team lead, or someone just trying to do the right thing at work, your actions set the tone. Your silence sets the tone. Your presence (or absence) in the D&I conversation speaks volumes.

It’s easy to think inclusion is a policy. A strategy. A checklist.

But more often than not, it starts with what you model.

🤔 So why do so many leaders stay silent?

I’ve asked this question in dozens of rooms.

The #1 answer: “I’m afraid I’ll say the wrong thing.”

And that fear? It keeps good leaders stuck. Silent. Hesitant. Sometimes even resentful.

But here's the truth: You don’t need to have all the answers to lead well in this space. You just need the courage to show up, and the confidence to grow.

📣 That’s exactly why I created this:

🗓️ Beyond Fear: Building Executive Confidence in Diversity & Inclusion

Next week Thursday | 11:00 AM | 45 mins

No fluff. No judgement. Just a practical, honest session for leaders who want to do better, and feel better doing it.

➡️ Register here to save your seat

You don’t have to be perfect to make an impact. You just have to be present.

See you Thursday?

– Toby