“Do you even belong here?” - I was asked if I speak English
❤️The Universal Desire for Belonging
Belonging is a universal human need. It’s what we seek in our communities, workplaces, and within ourselves. But what does it truly mean to belong? Is it simply about fitting in, or is there something deeper—being seen, valued, and celebrated for our multifaceted identities?
The Challenge of Belonging in a Diverse World
In a world filled with diversity, differences, and opposing opinions, belonging becomes more complex. How do we embrace unity while celebrating uniqueness? How do we create spaces where people feel safe to be their authentic selves?
As we celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, these questions resonate deeply. My personal journey as a former US Diplomat and first-generation immigrant has been shaped by the challenges of belonging.
Personal Experiences with Belonging and Stereotypes
There have been moments when my identity was misunderstood or reduced to stereotypes. One instance stands out: walking down 6th Avenue in Manhattan, I helped someone with directions, only to hear, “Your English is so good.” Another time, I overheard assumptions about my ability to speak English while shopping in a store.
These experiences highlight the limitations of assumptions based solely on outward traits. They serve as a reminder of the importance of seeing people as complex and evolving individuals.
What Does It Mean to Truly Belong?
For me, belonging starts with being seen for the multilayered person I am. It’s about creating spaces where stories are shared, and assumptions are challenged. To foster belonging, we must:
Create environments where people feel safe sharing their unique journeys.
Avoid defining others by a single, outward characteristic.
Invest time in getting to know the full, rich stories behind each person.
How to Break Down Stereotypes and Build Connection
One of the most powerful ways to break stereotypes is through proximity—getting close to different cultures, languages, and communities. By exposing ourselves to diverse ways of life, we expand our understanding and begin to see people for who they truly are.
This openness allows us to create new perspectives and embrace the idea that no single trait defines a person. In doing so, we cultivate flexibility in our thinking and make others feel safe to be their full, complex, and evolving selves.
Building a Diverse and Inclusive Community
I often get asked how I’ve cultivated one of the most diverse online communities. The answer is simple: diversity flourishes when we embrace new ways of being. When we’re flexible in how we think about identity, we naturally create environments where people feel they belong.
How Do You Create Belonging?
Now it’s your turn to reflect.
How do you create a sense of belonging in your life, business, or community?
What does it mean to you to feel seen?
Let’s start the conversation and work toward a world where everyone feels they truly belong.