The ancient Greeks described politics as πολιτικά (politiká), emphasizing the affairs of cities and the intricate dance of decision-making, power distribution, and resource allocation. This foundational concept echoes through the corridors of our modern workplaces, reminding us that politics is at play whether we are discussing a global initiative or planning a small team’s recognition luncheon.
Today, I’m delving into a topic often shrouded in unease yet inherent to our professional lives: the undeniable reality that we are all political beings.
At their core, organizations are:
- Political structures that distribute authority.
- Craft stages for power to be exercised.
- Create environments where the quest for influence thrives.
Yet, there’s a notable hesitation among many to acknowledge this, as if the realms of power and politics were territories best left uncharted. This reluctance stems from associating politics with the darker play of personalities rather than recognizing it as a fabric of our collective organizational life. Or to be naive to think that only our elected officials engage in the political landscape.
To believe oneself outside the realm of office politics is a myth. Simple acts like choosing lunch companions or eating alone send political signals. The dynamics of choosing who speaks in meetings, how long they speak, and when they speak – at the beginning or the end, and who does not also unfold within this political framework.
It’s crucial to recognize that office politics is fundamentally about power, affecting those with less power more significantly. Moreover, the fluid nature of power dynamics means that today’s leaders may hold different influences tomorrow. We have all heard about the Super Star who disappeared into the ether after a change in leadership.
At VRL Integrative LLC, we stand at the crossroads of faith and professionalism, understanding that the essence of our work transcends mere transactions or tasks. How do we navigate this landscape?
Intentionality in Engagement: Deciding how to engage in workplace politics reflects our values and faith. It’s about discerning the right level of involvement that allows us to maintain integrity and witness to our beliefs.
Aligning with the Greater Vision: Our efforts and accomplishments should not be tethered to individual allegiances but to the broader vision of our organization.
Power and Service: In many religious traditions, power is often linked with service. How we choose to wield our influence and share our power should align with our goal to serve others and advance collective goals.
Community and Support: Supporting one another, we, too, must consider who we share our power with and how we can uplift others in our professional circles. It is easy to focus on the individual(s) not sharing their power, but in this new year, can we intentionally share our power with others? Bringing others to the table, the meeting, and the golf course.
In embracing our political nature within the workplace, let us do so with the wisdom, grace, and intentionality our faith teaches us. By aligning our political engagement, ethical leadership, and religious values, we not only navigate the complex dynamics of our organizations more effectively but also bear witness to the transformative power of living our faith in action.
Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.
~James Baldwin
How has faith influenced the approach to workplace politics in your professional experience?
In your view, what are the most effective strategies for navigating power dynamics in the workplace while staying true to your values?
