Inspiring but highly practical, this follow-up to Reframing Change demonstrates, through real-world stories of navigating differences and fostering inclusive change in the workplace, the utility of the authors’ Conscious Change toolkit, a set of six principles (such as Test Negative Assumptions and Build Effective Relationships) and 36 affiliated skills (“Check to See If You Are Making Cultural Assumptions”; “Distinguish Intent from Impact.”) The framework, laid out with persuasive clarity, encourages readers toward deeper understanding of themselves and others, with a welcome emphasis on controlling emotions, recognizing cultural differences, and navigating the often complex dynamics between members of dominant and nondominant groups. The advice takes much of the edge off hard but necessary conversations.

Personal stories, gathered from Conscious Change workshops, bring the guidance to life, as real people describe thorny interpersonal and institutional challenges—and how the framework either did or could have helped. The stories get at the human messiness of making change, like how to handle aggressions, micro- and otherwise, from a co-worker of a different background who also happens to be close friends with one’s supervisor. A diverse roster of storytellers illuminates situations like that, showcasing how the Conscious Change principles and skills offer a healthy path. “I had to ask myself, Is hers a normal yell, or just not normal to me?” one storyteller asks, describing confronting a Nigerian co-worker over perceived rudeness but then learning about, in an inspiring conversation, unexpected cultural differences.

A social worker shares the story of a new supervisor who, despite not having the credentials, insists she could do the storyteller’s job—the chapter compellingly illustrates the principles “Clear Emotions,” “Conscious Use of Self,” and “Initiate Change.” The stories read briskly but feel authentically thorny, with the framework offering clear, actionable steps toward greater understanding, collaboration, and effectiveness. Conscious Change never promises it will be easy, but the authors demonstrate that change can be achieved—and that doing so is rewarding.

Takeaway: Well-honed tools, lessons, and case studies for fostering inclusive workplace change.

Comparable Titles: Mita Mallick’s Reimagine Inclusion, Ruchika Tulshyan Inclusion on Purpose.

Production grades
Cover: B
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A