In a poignant narrative, Regina Lawless shares her journey from being the DEI lead at Instagram to becoming a self-employed author and coach. Her career shift was triggered by the unexpected loss of her husband, which led her to reassess her priorities as a single mother. Despite facing financial challenges, Lawless found fulfillment in creative freedom and personal growth. She emphasizes the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace and believes that these principles will continue to shape future business practices.
A Turning Point in Life and Career
Regina Lawless's life took an unexpected turn when she lost her husband to a heart attack in 2021. At the age of 40, she became a single mother to their 15-year-old son. This tragedy prompted her to rethink her corporate career, which had previously felt unfulfilling and lacked the flexibility she now needed. As the former DEI lead at Instagram from 2020 to 2023, Lawless had already made significant strides in promoting diversity within the company. However, after her husband's death, she decided to leave her high-paying job in pursuit of a more meaningful and flexible lifestyle.
Lawless's transition was not easy. She had been earning a six-figure salary and receiving quarterly stock options, but she chose to follow her heart. With the support of her financial planner, she diversified her investments and eventually left her corporate role sooner than expected. In her first year as a self-employed author, content creator, and coach, she earned only a fraction of her previous income. Yet, she found immense value in the creative freedom and personal fulfillment her new career offered.
The Future of DEI in the Workplace
Despite the challenges she faced, Lawless remains optimistic about the future of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in the corporate world. She firmly believes that diverse teams are more innovative and better for business. As younger generations like Gen Z and Gen Alpha enter the workforce, she anticipates that inclusivity will become an integral part of how businesses operate. While the title "DEI" may evolve, the core values it represents—honoring differences and leveraging individual strengths—will endure.
Lawless also addresses common misconceptions about DEI programs, particularly the notion that they place unqualified individuals in positions or take opportunities away from deserving candidates. She clarifies that DEI work is about ensuring fair access to opportunities for all qualified individuals, often by reevaluating traditional hiring practices that can inadvertently exclude talented candidates.
A Journalist's Reflection
Regina Lawless's story serves as a powerful reminder that life's most profound changes often come unexpectedly. Her decision to leave a lucrative corporate position demonstrates the importance of aligning one's career with personal values and needs. For many readers, this narrative may inspire reflection on their own lives and careers. It underscores the significance of finding purpose beyond financial success and embracing change with courage and resilience. Ultimately, Lawless's journey highlights the enduring impact of diversity and inclusion in both personal and professional spheres.