I stepped into a land mine.

Written By Mindy Muller

It was unintentional. Unanticipated. Unexpected. The best of intentions can lead to unintended consequences. We have likely all experienced that on some level but some reminders and lessons learned (gulp) from today:

(1) Sometimes you are just 'othered.' Whether deserved or not, people sometimes make assumptions and slap a label on you or presume you to be on the wrong side of the issue. 'Othering' rarely happens with people who know you, so it's usually not personal, but it stings. May I strive today NOT to do that to others.

(2) Collective wisdom is important. Taking some extra time to get perspectives of people who think, look, and act different than me is important to ensure language and wording don't unintentionally offend or leave the wrong impression.

(3) Mea culpa. When the land mine blows up, it's best to be humble and learn the lesson. Being defensive doesn't work, and sometimes the opportunity to correct perception just isn't there. Genuine apology and a commitment to do better has to suffice.

I strive to HELP, not HURT. But when and if I offend, my door to conversation, discussion and correction is always open.

-Mindy Muller, CFRE, President/CEO of CDP

Mindy Muller

EDUCATE. SUPPORT. DEVELOP. CONNECT. CDP helps communities thrive. Through innovative and strategic partnerships with nonprofits, local government, educational institutions and community-based businesses, CDP works through community stakeholders to make communities places where everyone can thrive. Through our team of professionals we have helped thousands of organizations build their capacity to better serve their communities by providing innovative solutions to unique community development challenges.

Specialties include nonprofit capacity building; affordable housing solutions; community development strategies; and, social enterprise and entrepreneurship

https://communitydevelopmentprofessionals.com
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