Design Story’s Post

How bad is bad when someone mispronounces your name? One of the more popular videos I’ve posted to my Instagram started off as an impassioned plea, but I had no expectations that the message would be resonant across audiences. As somebody whose name has been mispronounced at important work events, and whose name has been shown but not said in popular media (side-eyes Team Drew Barrymore), I’m now over it. I know this won’t sit right with all of you. I know this is a controversial take, but hear me out, and in turn, I’d love to hear what you think. Let's just understand that people will never be able to pronounce most names 100% correctly because the languages they grew up speaking do not contain the sounds in our names. In such cases, I think it’s the effort that counts–and the willingness to listen, try again, and grow, to accept criticism without taking offense. My stance is that if somebody cannot pronounce my name correctly but is respectful and has a deep understanding of cultures, I’ll give them a pass. It’s more important to me that they respect my thought processes, my beliefs, and knowledge systems, than it is that they can hit the dental -ti part of my name the way those who speak Hindi, my mother tongue, can. I’d like to qualify this by saying I do think that cultures of color need to take up more space. People make such an effort to pronounce names within ‘superior’ or elitist cultures correctly (yes, we all know I’m talking about the French) and the same efforts should be paid to communities of color. This post is certainly not to let mispronunciation—out of carelessness, ignorance, or intention to create a power dynamic—off the hook. I think that’s a better deal. What do you think?  #names #naming #culture #culturalliteracy #culturalawareness #namepronunciation #socialjustice #diversity #inclusion #education #socialjsuticeeducation #culturallyresponsiveeducation #belonging

This article is my personal opinion.

Ever feel like you're stuck in a never-ending loop of self-doubt and negativity? It's time to break the chains of negative identities and reclaim our true selves. These sneaky labels we slap on ourselves—'not good enough,' 'failure,' 'imposter'—they're not who we are. They're just stories we've been telling ourselves for too long. But here's the thing: we have the power to rewrite those stories. Peel back the layers, challenge those old narratives, and step into the light of our own brilliance. You are not your past mistakes or perceived shortcomings. You are so much more. We can rise above the labels and awaken the limitless possibilities of who we can become. Comment FREE and I'll send you the freebie! ✔ Follow for more practical tips ✔ Like it if you find it inspiring ✔ Share it with your friends! #BreakFreeFromLabels #EmbraceYourPotential #YouAreEnough #BeautifulSoul

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𝐈 𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐌𝐜𝐇𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐤 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 “𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐉𝐨𝐲𝐬” Here, she explained the “I” complex she had devised – the Interiority complex that signaled an equilibrium, the balance between the Superiority and Inferiority complexes. This is where you truly answer the question “Who do you think you are?” Doing so by understanding; Perception – persona – self. You see, to become a voice is to become audible – to be heard. And this begs the question of what is being heard? What message are you communicating or embodying? This is why as we celebrate the girl child today with a desire to elevate her voice, we must first teach her to recognize and locate that voice (or is it the other way?). And we do that by teaching her to find her identity in a world that strives to make their definition of you, you! 📍 Understand your uniqueness – understand others. 📍 Celebrate it – celebrate you. 📍 Own it – take responsibility of your strengths, weaknesses, and fears. Pay the price now. 📍 Cultivate it – cultivate you. Find your habitat that flourishes you. Locate like minds. 📍 Find the problem you are the solution to. 📍 Be it – Be! Be you consistently. 📍 Amplify it – amplify you! If you don’t find a seat at the table, take your own chair and when you are tired, build your own table! Create platforms and no matter what, never be shouted down. The world is noisy but never fall into the deception that a lot of people are already doing you! It’s impossible. You bring “you” to that craft and since there’s only one “you”, it’s new! Glass raised to every girl. Let’s dance. Waiting for your unique thoughts on the subject. Let's talk in the comments space. #HappyInternationalDayoftheGirlChild #BecomingaVoice

Understanding Ad Hominem: Don't fall for the trap—focus on the argument, not the person. Ad Hominem is a term from Latin that means “against the man.” It refers to a common mistake in arguments where someone tries to discredit another person’s ideas by attacking their character instead of addressing the actual issue. This is a logical error because a person’s character doesn’t determine whether their argument is true or false. Key Points: What is it? Ad Hominem is when someone argues that another person is wrong just because they don’t like them or think they’re a bad person. Why is it wrong? The truth of an argument isn’t connected to the personal traits of the person making it. Examples: “You’re wrong because you’re not smart enough to understand this.” “We shouldn’t listen to her opinion on this matter because she’s not a good person.” Remember, focus on the argument itself—not the person making it! #CriticalThinking #LogicalFallacies #EffectiveCommunication #Argumentation #Professionalism

Embracing Authenticity! Hello everyone, it's Chrissy! I want to share a simple yet powerful reminder: being yourself is the key to a peaceful existence. Living life authentically, free from pretenses, brings clarity and simplicity. Be you, because an original is worth more than a copy! #AuthenticLiving #BeYourself #PeacefulExistence #SelfAcceptance #MentalClarity #InnerPeace #RealTalk"

How often do we catch ourselves being our own worst critics? I know I still struggle with this. We’re quick to encourage others but often forget to extend that same kindness to ourselves. In a world that seems to constantly demand more of us, we owe it to ourselves to be gentle, supportive, and compassionate. We must work on building ourselves up, not tearing ourselves down. We need that inner voice of positivity and confidence, especially with all the challenges society throws our way. Remember, you deserve the same kindness you give to others. 🌈 #SelfLove #PositiveThinking #BeKindToYourself #Confidence #SelfCompassion #MentalHealthAwareness #YouAreEnough Image Description: A bright and uplifting digital illustration featuring a white speech bubble with the handwritten quote: "Talk to yourself like you would talk to someone you love." The speech bubble is surrounded by playful, colourful doodles such as a smiling sun, hearts, a star, a rainbow, a crescent moon, leaves, flowers, a ladybird, and mushrooms, all on a pink background. The art style is whimsical and friendly, with the aim of encouraging self-compassion and positivity.

True-Self Tuesday! 🌱 'Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.' (1 John 3:18). Today, challenge yourself to be authentic in your interactions. Let your actions reflect your true intentions. What will you do today to live out your authenticity? #TrueSelfTuesday #AuthenticLiving

Lips play a powerful role in how we express ourselves and connect with the world. From the simplest smile that eases tension to the unspoken emotions revealed in a quiet pause, lips hold a unique, often undervalued, beauty. Culturally, they have rich significance, embodying symbols of attraction, success, and individuality. They help us speak, kiss, and express emotions when words fail. In many ways, they bridge our internal thoughts with our external world, giving voice to the unspoken. In my latest piece, I explore why I’ve come to envy lips for their beauty, cultural significance, and the power they hold in shaping our relationships and identities. #NewPost #MediumArticle #SelfExpression #Identity #EmotionalConnection #Communication #LinkedInWriters