Step Up

A New Vision of Inclusive Leadership What makes someone a leader? Someone you vote for, work for, or listen to for their expertise? With Step Up, equality advocate Ash Beckham challenges us to embrace a different vision of leadership-to stop focusing on external authorities and start reclaiming our own ability to create change. "e;What we need most are everyday leaders,"e; she writes. "e;We need people to step up and be the change they wish to see in the world. Anyone can do it. You can do it."e; Whether your path involves activism, political engagement, or simply being a positive voice in your workplace, home, and community, Beckham's Step Up provides essential guidance on cultivating the eight pillars of everyday leadership: * Empathy-the art of relating to others with compassion for our shared humanity, regardless of whether we agree* Responsibility-how we can raise our awareness and consciously choose to behave in ways that heal instead of harm* Courage-understanding the nature of fear so we can move beyond our comfort zone one step at a time* Grace-how keeping our higher purpose always in sight helps us stop reacting with fear or anger* Individuality-learning to value and celebrate our uniqueness, including the parts of ourselves we often reject* Humility-ways to keep the ego in check and open the door to honest, collaborative relationships* Patience-guidance for disarming our tendency to rush ahead so we can act with greater deliberation and forethought* Authenticity-how we can embody our deepest truths and lead by example in any situation For each pillar, Beckham shares engaging stories of her own journey from isolation and anger to a place of greater openness and connection-supported by scientific research and everyday practices to mindfully change the way you relate to yourself and the people in your life. Step Up is a powerful call to action-to speak when it feels easier to be silent, to do good without being self-righteous, and to create a world of inclusion where everyone has a voice and everyone belongs.