Diversity isn’t just about where we come from but how we see the world.
In the heart of Switzerland, amidst the pristine alpine landscapes, the corridors of 3R echoed not just with the nuances of advanced radiological innovations but also the whispers of diverse cultural symphonies. As a proud Luxembourger, I’ve always been enamored by the richness of diversity, with its splendid confluence of cultures. At 3R, I was greeted by a broader spectrum – Swiss meticulousness, French analytical depth, Italian passion, and Belgian consensus-building.
Imagine a vast hall filled with musicians from different corners of the world, each deeply rooted in their unique styles. Now, task them with creating an original masterpiece without a written score. That was 3R’s leadership team – immensely talented, incredibly diverse, but occasionally discordant.
To align our orchestra, the first step was revisiting our collective purpose, not as a mere statement but as a shared passion. We embarked on a soulful journey, rethinking our Vision, Mission, and Values. The exercise wasn’t just about words but feelings, interpretations, and shared aspirations.
During one of our retreats, as the sun rose behind the mountains, we sat around a wooden chalet table, each leader sharing their journey and personal and professional challenges. Every tale was a lesson in vulnerability, resilience, and growth. These sessions were interlaced with team-building exercises, communication workshops, and a collective art creation. This wasn’t just any art; it was our collaborative spirit captured on canvas.
However, like any endeavor, this, too, had its challenges. The direct feedback sessions, although enlightening, sometimes unveiled raw emotions. The spectrum of our diversity occasionally led to intense, passionate debates. But, I always believed that time and persistence heal and harmonize.
Yet, one should distinguish skillset diversity from cultural diversity. Two individuals from identical backgrounds could perceive a problem distinctively based on personal values. Ensuring these diverse views create a coherent, harmonious output is essential.
Diversity isn’t just about where we come from but how we see the world. At 3R, we have embarked on a journey to harness this diverse worldview. It’s a dance, sometimes a waltz, sometimes a tango, but always moving towards a harmonious future.
As leaders, our roles aren’t just to lead but to listen, understand, and weave together the threads we’re presented with, crafting a tapestry that tells a story of unity in diversity. At 3R, our tapestry is still being woven, but with every thread added, it’s becoming a masterpiece.
