Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.1.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Etty Burk ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://ettyburk.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [The Questions You're Not Asking in Exit Interviews](https://ettyburk.com/the-questions-youre-not-asking-in-exit-interviews/) - Exit interviews are one of the most underutilized tools in organizational development. Most companies conduct them—but few ask the right questions. Here's the typical approach: 'Why are you leaving? What could we have done differently?' And here's what usually happens: People give polite, surface-level answers. They don't want to burn bridges, so they say things - [What Inclusive Leadership Really Looks Like](https://ettyburk.com/what-inclusive-leadership-really-looks-like/) - I've worked with countless organizations that invest in diversity training, update their hiring policies, and issue statements about inclusion. And that's important work. But here's what I've learned: real inclusion doesn't happen in training rooms. It happens in everyday moments—in the small decisions leaders make that either reinforce belonging or quietly exclude. Inclusive leadership isn't - [The Myth of Work-Life Balance (And What to Focus on Instead)](https://ettyburk.com/the-myth-of-work-life-balance-and-what-to-focus-on-instead/) - Let me be honest: I don't believe in work-life balance. At least not the way it's usually framed. We talk about balance like it's a 50/50 split—as if every day should have equal parts work and personal life, perfectly measured and maintained. But life doesn't work that way. Some seasons demand more from your career. - [When Being Nice Isn't Kind](https://ettyburk.com/when-being-nice-isnt-kind/) - For years, I prided myself on being a 'nice' leader. I avoided conflict. I smoothed over tension. I said yes when I should've said no, and I let issues slide to keep the peace. Then one day, a team member gave me feedback that shook me: 'Your niceness is holding us back.' At first, I - [The Hidden Cost of Burnout (And How to Spot It Before It's Too Late)](https://ettyburk.com/the-hidden-cost-of-burnout-and-how-to-spot-it-before-its-too-late/) - Burnout doesn't announce itself with a dramatic breakdown. It creeps in quietly—through small signs we often ignore until it's too late. I've seen it countless times: high performers who suddenly become disengaged, leaders who snap at minor issues, teams that stop collaborating. And when you dig deeper, you find the same culprit: burnout. The problem? - [Why High Performers Leave (And It's Not About Money)](https://ettyburk.com/why-high-performers-leave-and-its-not-about-money/) - I once worked with an organization that was hemorrhaging talent. Their best people were leaving—not for higher salaries, but for something much more fundamental. They were leaving because they didn't feel valued. When leaders think about retention, they often jump to compensation packages, perks, or promotions. And yes, those matter. But here's what I've learned - [The Courage to Say 'I Don't Know'](https://ettyburk.com/the-courage-to-say-i-dont-know/) - One of the hardest things I've learned as a leader? Admitting when I don't have the answer. Early in my career, I believed leaders were supposed to know everything. That saying 'I don't know' would make me look incompetent or weak. So I faked it. I deflected. I came up with answers that sounded right, - [When Feedback Isn’t Just About You](https://ettyburk.com/when-feedback-isnt-just-about-you/) - 1. When Feedback Isn’t Just About You Feedback can sting—but it can also open a door. One of the most transformative lessons I’ve learned as a leader, psychologist, and human being is that feedback is often less about judgment and more about what someone else needs to express, understand, or feel heard about. Sometimes, feedback - [The Power of Pause](https://ettyburk.com/the-power-of-pause/) - The Power of the Pause! Early in my career, I thought speed was everything. Quick responses, fast decisions, and immediate action felt like the key to proving my worth. And in some ways, they were. But over time, I realized something surprising: the most effective leaders, the ones who built trust and drove real change, - [Changing Definitions of Success As a Woman in Leadership](https://ettyburk.com/changing-definitions-of-success-as-a-woman-in-leadership/) - I was recently asked: As a woman in leadership, what is your definition of success? Has it changed over the years? Early in my career, I thought success was about climbing the ladder—titles, accolades, and tangible achievements. And in many ways, it was and is... But over time, I realized that true success isn’t just - [The Power of Letting Others Lead](https://ettyburk.com/the-power-of-letting-others-lead/) - Leadership doesn’t always mean taking the front seat. One of the boldest and most effective things a leader can do is step back and let others lead. This isn’t about abdicating responsibility or checking out. It’s about creating space for growth—for others to stretch, to stumble, and ultimately, to shine. When I shifted from doing - [Title: The Real Story Behind a Leadership Transformation](https://ettyburk.com/title-the-real-story-behind-a-leadership-transformation/) - Years ago, I had a team of 14 direct reports. They were dedicated, talented professionals — but their performance wasn’t where it needed to be. And I realized... I was the problem. I had been working overtime to help them succeed. Stepping in to fix things. We offer advice and edits before every deliverable reaches - [Personal Growth and Resilience: Leading with Authenticity](https://ettyburk.com/personal-growth-and-resilience-leading-with-authenticity/) - There’s a part of leadership no one prepares you for: holding it together when your world is coming apart. A few years ago, I led a high-performing team, juggled executive demands, and drove critical projects. On the outside, I was calm and composed. On the inside, I was navigating an intense personal storm—caring for a - [Strategic Leadership: Navigating Change with Transparency and Trust](https://ettyburk.com/strategic-leadership-navigating-change-with-transparency-and-trust/) - Change is hard. Especially when people feel it’s done to them rather than to them. I was working with a company during a major organizational redesign. A new CEO had arrived with a bold, fast-paced strategy, and resistance was brewing beneath the surface. Leaders felt unsure, teams were confused, and morale was slipping. Rather than - [Leading Through the Mess: When Personal Growth and Professional Leadership Collide](https://ettyburk.com/leading-through-the-mess-when-personal-growth-and-professional-leadership-collide/) - Some of the most potent leadership growth happens when life throws a wrench into your plans. Years ago, I led a large HR and organizational development team at a prestigious academic medical center. It was a role I loved—demanding, rewarding, and strategic. And then life hit me hard. A personal loss brought grief, exhaustion, and - [The Myth of “Soft” Skills: Why They’re Your Strategic Advantage](https://ettyburk.com/the-myth-of-soft-skills-why-theyre-your-strategic-advantage/) - Let’s retire the phrase “soft skills.” I’ve worked with leaders at every level—from high-growth startups to Fortune 100 companies—and I can tell you this: what often gets labeled as “soft” drives hard results. Listening. Adapting. Building trust. Communicating clearly, making people feel heard and valued. These aren’t add-ons. They’re the foundation of strong leadership, high-performing - [Navigating Return-to-Office Mandates: What Works, What Doesn’t, and Why It Matters](https://ettyburk.com/navigating-return-to-office-mandates-what-works-what-doesnt-and-why-it-matters/) - The conversation around Return-to-Office (RTO) mandates has re-emerged with full force—and for good reason. As organizations seek to drive collaboration, rebuild culture, and boost performance, many are wrestling with how to design RTO policies that are both effective and empathetic. It’s a balancing act that demands nuance. I recently had the opportunity to share my - [Should We Dismantle Diversity and Inclusion?](https://ettyburk.com/should-we-dismantle-diversity-and-inclusion/) - Should We Dismantle Diversity and Inclusion? As an HR leader and Organizational Psychologist, my passion has always been helping leaders create environments where people feel safe, respected, and valued. It's a win-win—for employees and for the bottom line. But in today’s climate, one question keeps coming up: Should we dismantle Diversity and Inclusion (DI) initiatives? - [Fragile Beginnings, Bold Futures](https://ettyburk.com/fragile-beginnings-bold-futures/) - This small, cracked shell may seem inconsequential on the ground, but it represents the courage to step out of our comfort zones and embrace new opportunities. In our professional lives, we often face moments where we must break free from what confines us—whether it’s self-doubt, fear of failure, or the limitations of the status quo. - [Recognizing and Addressing "Functional Freeze" in the Workplace](https://ettyburk.com/recognizing-and-addressing-functional-freeze-in-the-workplace/) - In today's fast-paced work environment, it's not uncommon for leaders and their teams to experience what's termed "functional freeze." This state, often likened to the "freeze" response in fight-or-flight scenarios, occurs when individuals continue to function in their roles but significantly reduce engagement and responsiveness. Recognizing and addressing this can dramatically improve team performance and - [Finding Your Center: A Mindful Approach to Overcoming Information Overload](https://ettyburk.com/finding-your-center-a-mindful-approach-to-overcoming-information-overload/) - In today’s fast-paced world, information overload is a common challenge. When we're bombarded with more information than our brains can handle, it can lead to what we often call "brain fog"—that frustrating feeling of mental fatigue, confusion, and difficulty focusing. This cognitive overload can sometimes result in what’s known as functional freeze, where we feel - [Bridging the Gap: Fostering Collaboration for Better Outcomes](https://ettyburk.com/bridging-the-gap-fostering-collaboration-for-better-outcomes/) - As an organizational psychologist, fostering collaboration between departments has been a key focus in my work. One example that stands out is from my time working with a mid-sized tech company where the development and marketing teams were operating in silos. This lack of collaboration led to misaligned priorities, delayed product launches, and missed market - [Creating a Culture of Engagement: The Key to Employee Satisfaction and Organizational Success](https://ettyburk.com/creating-a-culture-of-engagement-the-key-to-employee-satisfaction-and-organizational-success/) - One of the most effective methods I've found for managing and improving employee engagement is fostering a culture where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued. As an organizational psychologist and HR leader, I've seen firsthand how such an environment not only enhances employee satisfaction but also drives better financial results, increases productivity, and creates happier - [Standing Together: Tackling Workplace Bullying and Building a Supportive Environment](https://ettyburk.com/standing-together-tackling-workplace-bullying-and-building-a-supportive-environment/) - Workplace bullying can take many forms, from overt actions like verbal abuse and intimidation to subtler ones like exclusion or undermining someone's work. These negative behaviors affect the individual's well-being and harm team dynamics and overall productivity. However, we can create a more supportive and respectful work environment by standing together and adopting effective strategies. - [AI and Us: Navigating the Future with Artificial Intelligence](https://ettyburk.com/ai-and-us-navigating-the-future-with-artificial-intelligence/) - In the whirlwind of technological evolution, artificial intelligence stands out as a beacon of both promise and caution. As AI systems become more sophisticated, their impact on our lives, workplaces, and societies grows more profound. This dual-edged sword offers unparalleled opportunities for innovation and efficiency but poses significant ethical dilemmas and challenges to our societal norms. - [Redefining the Workspace: Navigating the Future of Remote Work](https://ettyburk.com/redefining-the-workspace-navigating-the-future-of-remote-work/) - As we stand at the crossroads of a workplace revolution, the shift towards remote and hybrid work models has ignited a global conversation about the future of our work lives. This transition, accelerated by technological advancements and unprecedented global circumstances, presents opportunities and challenges that could redefine what it means to 'go to work.' - [Crafting Our Culture: Every Contribution Counts Towards a Positive Workplace](https://ettyburk.com/crafting-our-culture-every-contribution-counts-towards-a-positive-workplace/) - In a world where work is more than just a job, our workplace culture plays a pivotal role in our daily happiness, motivation, and productivity. A positive culture fosters collaboration, innovation, and a sense of belonging, but it doesn't just happen—it's built by every one of us daily. Here are ways we can all contribute to nurturing a positive and inclusive culture: - [Mindfulness in the Workplace: Harnessing Presence for Organizational Excellence](https://ettyburk.com/mindfulness-in-the-workplace-harnessing-presence-for-organizational-excellence-2/) - In the high-speed train of corporate life, mindfulness is the much-needed pause at a scenic station. It’s the practice of being present and fully engaged with whatever we’re doing now — free from distraction or judgment, and aware of our thoughts and feelings without getting caught up in them. Implementing indfulness in organizations can profoundly affect employee well-being and the company’s bottom line, but it’s not without its challenges. Let’s explore the benefits, drawbacks, and best practices for integrating mindfulness in the workplace. - [Breaking Free from Toxic Leadership: Strategies for a Healthier Work Environment](https://ettyburk.com/breaking-free-from-toxic-leadership-strategies-for-a-healthier-work-environment/) - The effects of toxic leadership can ripple through an entire organization, leading to decreased employee morale, increased turnover, and a stifling of innovation. From constant negativity and unfair criticism to micromanagement and lack of empathy, toxic behaviors undermine team cohesion and individual well-being. But it's not all doom and gloom – there are ways to navigate and mitigate the impacts of toxic leadership. - [Key Tips for Improving Your Strategic Thinking Skills](https://ettyburk.com/key-tips-for-improving-your-strategic-thinking-skills/) - Strategic thinking is crucial in various contexts, including business, leadership, problem-solving, and planning. It helps individuals and organizations navigate complex and dynamic environments to achieve success. Improving your strategic thinking skills can be valuable in various aspects of life, including work, problem-solving, and decision-making. - [Embracing Diversity: A Guide to Freedom of Speech and Acceptance](https://ettyburk.com/embracing-diversity-a-guide-to-freedom-of-speech-and-acceptance/) - Given the social unrest and discourse, I have thought a lot about freedom of speech. Freedom of speech is a cornerstone of our thriving democracy, a vital right that allows individuals to express their ideas and opinions openly. It is essential for fostering innovation, cultural exchange, and societal progress. - [Cultivating Respect and Emotional Safety in Organizational Culture: A Necessity for Modern Business](https://ettyburk.com/cultivating-respect-and-emotional-safety-in-organizational-culture-a-necessity-for-modern-business/) - Effective risk management is a vital skill in today’s fast-changing work environment. It can make all the difference between success or failure in any undertaking. Identifying, assessing, and managing risks are essential skills. Successful risk management requires making well-informed decisions and taking calculated risks. The following tips and best practices will help you navigate risks effectively and increase your chances of success. - [Quick Tips and Best Practices for Effective Risk Management](https://ettyburk.com/quick-tips-and-best-practices-for-effective-risk-management/) - Effective risk management is a vital skill in today’s fast-changing work environment. It can make all the difference between success or failure in any undertaking. Identifying, assessing, and managing risks are essential skills. Successful risk management requires making well-informed decisions and taking calculated risks. The following tips and best practices will help you navigate risks effectively and increase your chances of success. - [A Concise Guide to Implementing Hybrid Work Schedules](https://ettyburk.com/a-concise-guide-to-implementing-hybrid-work-schedules/) - Hybrid work schedules are becoming increasingly popular as the nature of work continues to evolve. These schedules combine remote and in-office work benefits, providing flexibility and collaboration. However, planning carefully, communicating effectively, and remaining adaptable are crucial to making them successful. Below are some key strategies that can help ensure the success of your employees' hybrid work schedule. - [Striking a Balance: The Pros and Cons of Remote Work](https://ettyburk.com/striking-a-balance-the-pros-and-cons-of-remote-work/) - In recent years, remote work has become a hot topic, transforming how we approach our professional lives. While it offers numerous advantages, it presents its fair share of challenges. In this post, we'll explore remote work's essential pros and cons, helping you weigh the benefits against the drawbacks to find the right balance for your work style. - [Could AI play a role in promoting workplace inclusion?](https://ettyburk.com/could-ai-play-a-role-in-promoting-workplace-inclusion/) - The success of any organization can be attributed to effective leadership. Effective leadership is crucial for the success of any organization. It involves balancing meeting the organization's needs and ensuring each team member's needs are met. - [Have you experienced Ghosting?](https://ettyburk.com/have-you-experienced-ghosting/) - The success of any organization can be attributed to effective leadership. Effective leadership is crucial for the success of any organization. It involves balancing meeting the organization's needs and ensuring each team member's needs are met. - [The Challenges and Rewards of Leading a Team!](https://ettyburk.com/the-challenges-and-rewards-of-leading-a-team/) - Performance management is a strategic business process to help employees succeed by establishing a shared understanding of what is to be done, how it is to be done, and how success will be evaluated. - [The “No surprises” Performance Management Process!](https://ettyburk.com/the-no-surprises-performance-management-process/) - Performance management is a strategic business process to help employees succeed by establishing a shared understanding of what is to be done, how it is to be done, and how success will be evaluated. - [Making Feedback work for you!](https://ettyburk.com/making-feedback-work-for-you/) - For leaders of all levels, an essential part of your role is clarifying expectations, coaching, delivering feedback, and providing guidance and resources. But as humans, it is sometimes difficult to deliver feedback, especially if it is constructive. It is hard to have that difficult conversation! Unfortunately, avoiding the inevitable will not improve or reinforce the needed behavior and performance. - [Living in a world that celebrates all of us for who we are.](https://ettyburk.com/why-i-wrote-aaron-the-different/) - Why I wrote Aaron the Different: There are way too many stories in the world’s long and recent history demonstrating the terrible impact of bias, bullying, and discrimination. - [Towards Building an Equitable Culture](https://ettyburk.com/towards-building-an-equitable-culture/) - Building and reinforcing an inclusive and equitable culture is a worthwhile goal for many organizations. When it comes to creating a more equitable workplace, we often focus on who gets hired, who is leaving, who gets promoted, or who receives a more significant bonus. While all these data points are essential, it is critical to - [The Power of Gratitude](https://ettyburk.com/the-power-of-gratitude/) - As we head into the season of celebrations and traditions, we may have a more challenging time getting into the holiday spirit. Given our experiences with the pandemic, politics, social unrest, inflation, and what is happening in each of our personal lives, trying to make sense of it all is unsettling. Being thankful and grateful - [Culture and Professional Development are your Competitive Advantage!](https://ettyburk.com/culture-and-professional-development-are-your-competitive-advantage/) - I once worked with a start-up whose CEO and Founder emphasized that the organization was a team, not a family, at each new employee's onboarding. He noted that each team member had responsibilities and accountabilities and that all needed to "pull their weight" for themselves and the broader team. Each time he said that I - [The new Contract between Employees and Businesses](https://ettyburk.com/the-new-contract-between-employees-and-businesses/) - As we enter 2023, I am excited by the potential changes in the “contract” between businesses and employees. I think that, ultimately, there will be a positive balance! The COVID pandemic continues to shake up and disrupt our sense of work and connection to work, and the impacts have been painful and transformational. It forced us to - [Preventing Harassment in the Workplace: The Importance of a Value-Based Culture](https://ettyburk.com/preventing-harassment-in-the-workplace-the-importance-of-a-value-based-culture/) - With all the painful announcements and disclosures of late, I cannot help but ask what can we do differently to avoid these abusive situations? What do we need to do to detoxify our organizations so that these unacceptable forms of harassment do not continue? Understanding how organizational culture is created, and how behavioral expectations are communicated - [Secrets for Your Business Success…](https://ettyburk.com/secrets-for-your-business-success/) - Driving Organizational Success Through Your Talent! As leaders, by focusing on how we attract, manage performance, and professionally develop our talent, we can ensure that our organizations have the necessary bench strength to be competitive – the right people, for the right jobs, at the right time! As I mentioned in a previous post, creating - [Recipe for Toxic Leadership](https://ettyburk.com/recipe-for-toxic-leadership/) - Leaders can make or break an organization. Some of us have met toxic leaders. You know the ones-- individuals in leadership positions that lack leadership skills, have low emotional intelligence, excel at politics, micro-manage, bully, leave things unclear, and take credit for other’s work. Sound familiar? I worked with a client who was going through change. This ## Pages - [HOME](https://ettyburk.com/) - Want a stronger bottom line and a team that performs? I drive higher productivity and better financial outcomes helping organizations create cultures where employees feel respected, valued, and engaged. A win-win for both organizations and employees. SCHEDULE COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION Hi! I’m Etty Burk, an organizational psychologist and founder of Leading with Difference. I help organizations—both - [Contact](https://ettyburk.com/contact/) - LET'S CONNECT! Creating Environments Where People and Organizations ThriveTagline: Thriving people. Stronger organizations. Real results.I help organizations build cultures where people feel valued, supported, and empowered to do their best work. From interim HR leadership to strategy and engagement, I bring hands-on expertise that helps people thrive—and when people thrive, so do organizations.My award-winning children’s - [BOOK](https://ettyburk.com/book/) - AARON THE DIFFERENT Aaron the Different A Story of Courage, Belonging and Acceptance on Bullies #1 Children's Books in Bullies #1 Children's Sociology Books (Kindle Store) #1 Children's Activity Books (Kindle Store) “Aaron the Different” by Etty BurkA story of acceptance and social issues, it captures the importance of appreciating the unique qualities of those - [Your Business Greatness Promo](https://ettyburk.com/ybg/) - Special Offer exclusively for the listeners of 'Your Business Greatness" podcast Name Email ENTER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN By entering, you agree to be added to my mailing list. Don’t worry, I only send occasional updates, special offers, and book news – no spam, promise! Exclusive Listener DiscountAs a special thank you, all Your - [ABOUT](https://ettyburk.com/about/) - About Etty Burk: Award-Winning Author and Inclusion Advocate Hi! Are you a leader looking to create a healthier, more engaged organization?With a research-driven approach, I partner with leaders across industries to help them create workplaces where employees feel valued, connected, and productive. Thriving employees fuel thriving organizations—leading to better financial results, operational excellence, and happier - [Resources](https://ettyburk.com/resources/) - Resources Message from Etty This section is filled with resources to bring Aaron the Different’s powerful message of acceptance and inclusion to life. Below, you’ll find art activities for children and thoughtful recommendations for parents, caretakers, and educators.Every act of kindness has the power to create real change. Together, we can inspire a world where - [Blog](https://ettyburk.com/blog/) - BLOG BY ETTY judgment, and aware of our thoughts and feelings without getting caught up in them. Implementing indfulness in organizations can profoundly affect employee well-being and the company’s bottom line, but it’s not without its challenges. Let’s explore the benefits, drawbacks, and best practices for integrating mindfulness in the workplace. Read More » December - [Testimonials](https://ettyburk.com/testimonials/) - TESTIMONIALS Etty is a wonderful asset to any team looking to grow their HR Infrastructure! She has an extensive knowledge base regarding healthcare companies as well as startups. She is very diplomatic and great at balancing the needs of the company with the needs and perspectives of the employees. She acts with integrity and is - [Cart](https://ettyburk.com/cart/) - CART 📦 Note: When choosing your shipping option, please note that books will be shipped on Thursday of each week. If you have a specific need, please connect directly and we will do our best to accommodate. - [Checkout](https://ettyburk.com/checkout/) - CHECKOUT ✍🏽 Inscription Option: Your book will be signed and inscribed, and you can choose your inscription message!Choose from: “Happy Birthday!”, “Keep on Shining Bright!”, “You be you!”, and “You are perfect the way you are!”If it’s a gift, tell us the name of the recipient, and the inscription of your choice (there is a - [My account](https://ettyburk.com/my-account/) - [Shop](https://ettyburk.com/shop/) ## Products - [Aaron the Different (Hardcover)](https://ettyburk.com/product/aaron-the-different-hardcover/) - A STORY OF COURAGE, BELONGING AND ACCEPTANCE This powerful story about diversity and inclusion is for people of all ages. Eight-year-old Aaron lives in a country called Premium on the planet Astron, but unlike his tall, perfectly purple family and friends, Aaron is round, small and green. His classmates tease him and won’t play with him because he’s different from all the other Premiums. Why won’t they accept him for who he is? His only friends are the sunmoonies and myrtledockers, strange and wonderful creatures who live in the forest and teach him the secrets of the mysterious underground caves and tunnels. When disaster strikes during a school field trip, Aaron is faced with the challenge of his life. Something happens that changes everything, showing Aaron the value of his true inner strength, boosting his confidence, and inspiring the people of Premium forever. Etty Burk shows that we all possess unique skills and talents and have the power to make real positive change. We can all help people feel they are safe, welcome, and truly belong. - [Aaron the Different (Paperback)](https://ettyburk.com/product/aaron-the-different-paperback/) - A STORY OF COURAGE, BELONGING AND ACCEPTANCE This powerful story about diversity and inclusion is for people of all ages. Eight-year-old Aaron lives in a country called Premium on the planet Astron, but unlike his tall, perfectly purple family and friends, Aaron is round, small and green. His classmates tease him and won’t play with him because he’s different from all the other Premiums. Why won’t they accept him for who he is? His only friends are the sunmoonies and myrtledockers, strange and wonderful creatures who live in the forest and teach him the secrets of the mysterious underground caves and tunnels. When disaster strikes during a school field trip, Aaron is faced with the challenge of his life. Something happens that changes everything, showing Aaron the value of his true inner strength, boosting his confidence, and inspiring the people of Premium forever. Etty Burk shows that we all possess unique skills and talents and have the power to make real positive change. We can all help people feel they are safe, welcome, and truly belong. - [Aaron the Different (Hardcover) - 5 Pack](https://ettyburk.com/product/aaron-the-different-hardcover-5-pack/) - A STORY OF COURAGE, BELONGING AND ACCEPTANCE This powerful story about diversity and inclusion is for people of all ages. Eight-year-old Aaron lives in a country called Premium on the planet Astron, but unlike his tall, perfectly purple family and friends, Aaron is round, small and green. His classmates tease him and won’t play with him because he’s different from all the other Premiums. Why won’t they accept him for who he is? His only friends are the sunmoonies and myrtledockers, strange and wonderful creatures who live in the forest and teach him the secrets of the mysterious underground caves and tunnels. When disaster strikes during a school field trip, Aaron is faced with the challenge of his life. Something happens that changes everything, showing Aaron the value of his true inner strength, boosting his confidence, and inspiring the people of Premium forever. Etty Burk shows that we all possess unique skills and talents and have the power to make real positive change. We can all help people feel they are safe, welcome, and truly belong. - [Aaron the Different (Paperback) - 5 Pack](https://ettyburk.com/product/aaron-the-different-paperback-5-pack/) - A STORY OF COURAGE, BELONGING AND ACCEPTANCE This powerful story about diversity and inclusion is for people of all ages. Eight-year-old Aaron lives in a country called Premium on the planet Astron, but unlike his tall, perfectly purple family and friends, Aaron is round, small and green. His classmates tease him and won’t play with him because he’s different from all the other Premiums. Why won’t they accept him for who he is? His only friends are the sunmoonies and myrtledockers, strange and wonderful creatures who live in the forest and teach him the secrets of the mysterious underground caves and tunnels. When disaster strikes during a school field trip, Aaron is faced with the challenge of his life. Something happens that changes everything, showing Aaron the value of his true inner strength, boosting his confidence, and inspiring the people of Premium forever. Etty Burk shows that we all possess unique skills and talents and have the power to make real positive change. We can all help people feel they are safe, welcome, and truly belong. ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://ettyburk.com/category/uncategorized/) - [blog](https://ettyburk.com/category/blog/) ## Tags - [Leadership](https://ettyburk.com/tag/leadership/) - [courage](https://ettyburk.com/tag/courage/) - [i don't know](https://ettyburk.com/tag/i-dont-know/) - [learning mindset](https://ettyburk.com/tag/learning-mindset/) - [organizational psychology](https://ettyburk.com/tag/organizational-psychology/) - [vulnerability](https://ettyburk.com/tag/vulnerability/) - [high performers](https://ettyburk.com/tag/high-performers/) - [retention](https://ettyburk.com/tag/retention/) - [team growth](https://ettyburk.com/tag/team-growth/) - [burnout](https://ettyburk.com/tag/burnout/) - [workplace boundaries](https://ettyburk.com/tag/workplace-boundaries/) - [work life balance](https://ettyburk.com/tag/work-life-balance/) - [work life](https://ettyburk.com/tag/work-life/) - [boundaries](https://ettyburk.com/tag/boundaries/) - [work life integrating](https://ettyburk.com/tag/work-life-integrating/) - [inclusion](https://ettyburk.com/tag/inclusion/) - [inclusive leadership](https://ettyburk.com/tag/inclusive-leadership/) - [performative diversity](https://ettyburk.com/tag/performative-diversity/) - [exit interviews](https://ettyburk.com/tag/exit-interviews/) - [org development](https://ettyburk.com/tag/org-development/) ## Product categories - [Uncategorized](https://ettyburk.com/product-category/uncategorized/)