Division is Fine, a Divide Isn’t

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As an organization we have long chosen to be apolitical in our dealings, writing and more. Admittedly it is harder to do now than ever because it feels like people find (look for?) political undertones in nearly every topic.

This is not a coming out article for my political views. Nor is it (completely) a diatribe against the political and social climate. But I hope it gives you pause, and if you take my advice, perhaps a bit of hope.

In this world, it seems people paint themselves into corners, looking for solace in others who seem to have the same opinion. On a human level, this makes sense – we find comfort and connection with those we share commonalities. Yet, the divide that is caused as people move further and further towards their corners isn’t helpful individually or collectively.

One of the things I’ve worked to teach leaders over the last 30 years is how to encourage people to share their ideas – because the more perspectives and ideas we have, the better chance we have to find the best solutions.? This is a completely valid point. And most people reading will agree with me on a work problem.

But if we move to ideological corners outside of work, that behavior seeps into work too.

I see it is people being more cautious of sharing ideas, and more likely to throw col water on the ideas of others. Even as we preach and focus on creating greater psychological safety at work, the behaviors of the divide are sometimes making that harder to create.

A step in the right direction is hinted at in the title.? It is ok for us to have different opinions – division of opinion is helpful and healthy. Gone are the days of movie mogul Sam Goldwyn who said, “I hate a man who always says 'yes' to me. When I say 'no' I like a man who also says 'no.'” In fact, Taylor Swift’s quote makes more sense: “We don't need to share the same opinions as others, but we need to be respectful.”

The Divide in an intellectual canyon between two steep-sided bluffs.? No one wants to be Wiley Coyote running off the edge, only to plunge at great risk and injury. So we either shut-up or shout across the chasm to “those people” on the other side.

My concern is that I see divisions – differences of thoughts and opinions - becoming these kinds of divides at work.?

As leaders we must understand the difference between divisions and divides and make sure we are building bridges, and encouraging people to get comfortable enough to meet in the middle to share ideas and insights, because until we do we won’t solve our biggest organizational problems.

And if we can encourage people to do this at work, it just might change some behaviors outside of work too.

What Do You Think?

Share your thoughts in the comments – what is your advice on how to keep divisions from becoming divides.

Join me Live on Tomorrow…

For a conversation with Lisa Danels as we talk about how to lead in ways that create greater collaboration, higher levels of engagement and more. Lisa calls it “mastering the art of “all-in’” and I promise you will be inspired and informed by our conversation!

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