Make your wealth part of your unique "how"

Instead of hiding what makes you different, it's much more powerful to own those attributes and channel them in ways that add unique value to society. Minorities like me may feel more inclined to try to fit in to avoid discrimination; but I have discovered that if you feel good about yourself, others will be good with you. If they're not, that's their problem, not yours. By coming to terms with your differences, and even the feelings of discomfort they may cause, you are much more likely to contribute meaningfully to our world.

Your unique "how" - the habits and values ​​that guide you - are often influenced by influences you may not be aware of, but often these principles and qualities are rooted in your upbringing. For me, that includes my childhood in Mexico City where I was born and where I grew up until I was sixteen. This Hispanic Heritage Month, I want to share some of the most significant ways my Mexican heritage has shaped me and the organizations I lead.

First of all, my Mexican upbringing taught me the importance of relaxing and having fun. Latinos tend not to take themselves too seriously; we know how to laugh at ourselves and we often do. In Mexico, it's almost a compliment when someone makes fun of you, as it's considered an act of camaraderie and affection. My Mexican heritage has helped me bring levity, warmth and a sense of humor to the cultures of every organization I lead.

In the work environment, the ability to laugh at yourself helps you receive critical feedback without taking it personally. This allows you to constantly grow and improve. It puts setbacks into perspective and helps you to shake off defeats, learn from them, and move on. Especially in these difficult times when people seem more rigidly attached to their points of view and more ruthless towards those who do not share the same points of view, it is essential to remember that we are all in this together. Few forces can break the tension and unite us better than a good joke or a laugh.

Mexico is also where I learned fundamental lessons about the importance of bridging perceived divides. Mexico welcomed my father after surviving the Holocaust as a young boy and teenager. In my island Jewish community in Mexico City, my mother regularly scheduled me play dates with the Christian children of the city. She wanted me to understand the importance of human interconnectedness – one that transcends differences like race or religion.

My father's story and my childhood experiences inspired a lifelong mission that has fueled every social enterprise I've started: from PeaceWorks to KIND to Empatico, and from OneVoice to our brand new Starts With Us. Growing up as a confused Mexican Jew, who has since become a confused Mexican American Jew who never clearly fits into a category, has helped me overcome superficial limitations throughout throughout my life.

Across all the companies I've built, I've sought to instill the same values ​​in my team: championing diversity of thought and caring, inquisitive connections between teammates, especially in the face of our differences. As a leader, I strive to identify with every person I meet and every team member I work with, first and foremost as a human being. These qualities have proven invaluable in creating a culture in which team members feel comfortable disagreeing with each other with respect. This in turn...