🪢Irreconcilable Differences: “Workplace Family” 🪢
As a child, I remember hearing about the movie Irreconcilable Differences, where a kid sues her parents for a divorce to raise herself. It was one of my first exposures to the media exploring the unusual family separation. ⚖️
Fast forward to today, and I often hear workplaces described as “workplace families.” The idea has its appeal—💡 a place where we feel connected, committed, and supported. However, the term family traditionally refers to relationships formed by birth, adoption, or marriage, where bonds can foster greater tolerance for differences, missteps, and disagreements. In the workplace, though, this comparison can fall short—especially for those who experience the reality of being casually “separated” from their so-called “work family.”
While the idea of a “workplace family” resonates with some, I believe community is a more thoughtful and accurate way to describe a healthy workplace. 🌿🦋
Unlike families, workplaces are bound by an employment contract 📄—a formal agreement outlining rights, duties, and exchanges (compensation + benefits for work). And let’s not forget the “at-will” clause. On the other hand, communities are chosen. Employees actively decide to join, contribute to, and, when necessary, leave a workplace community.
A community is “a feeling of fellowship with others, resulting from sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals.” This reflects what employees genuinely seek in their workplace:
- A space where their work is valued and recognized ✨
- Collaboration that leverages individual strengths for collective success 🪴
- Achievements that are celebrated equitably, fostering happiness & fulfillment 🎉
When evaluating a workplace, consider its “community” factors:
🧩 Employee well-being: Do they prioritize and invest in it?
🧩 Family-friendly practices: How do they support employees’ families?
🧩 Partnerships and reputation: Do they align with the values you hold?
🧩 Broader impact: Are they good stewards of the larger community?
These signals can help you determine if an organization’s culture aligns with your values and whether it’s a place where you can build meaningful connections, contribute with purpose, and grow alongside others. 🌱