The Grinch: Why Growth Isn’t Performative

The Grinch doesn’t change because someone applauds him.

He changes because something finally lands.

That distinction matters — especially in inclusion work.

Performative change is comfortable

Performative growth looks like:

• Statements without accountability
• Training without follow-through
• Apologies without changed behavior

It’s visible. It’s marketable. And it requires very little disruption.

Real growth is uncomfortable

The Grinch’s transformation isn’t instant. It involves:

• Self-reflection
• Accountability
• Action

No one rewards him before he changes. No one centers his feelings during the process. He does the work because it’s necessary — not because it’s celebrated.

That’s where inclusion efforts often stall.

Inclusion isn’t about being seen as “good”

It’s about doing better.

Growth that matters:

• Shows up in systems, not slogans
• Changes outcomes, not optics
• Centers those most impacted, not those most comfortable

The Grinch didn’t become kinder because it was trendy.
He became kinder because it was right.

And inclusion work demands the same kind of transformation — slow, accountable, and real.