"Office Politics: A Game of Perception, Not Reality"

Office politics is less about what is, more about how we choose to see it.

Most so called “politics against us” is a result of our own insecurity, overthinking, gossiping, while very few are actually true. Few ways to manage ourselves to avoid perception of politics:

?? Manage Emotions and avoid trap of overthinking: We carry home emotion at work and work emotion at home. This affects the way we think and how much we think. Pause, give time. Most issues are not worthy of time, attention and tension which we often take.

?? Focus on Work and Performance: High performers always shine over politics. Keep your focus on your tasks and goals and avoid gossip or drama.

?? Collaborate than Compete: Work is not a race which needs to be won every time.

?? Lead by Example: Demonstrate integrity, professionalism and fairness in your actions and contribute to a healthier work environment.

?? Do not make everything a prestige issue or personal: Detach from minor conflicts. Avoid engaging in every small disagreement or winning every conversation. Let go of minor issues and focus on the big picture.

But, if you genuinely are convinced about politics against you, following may be of use (do share how do you manage for my learning):

?? Stay Neutral and be Diplomatic: Avoid joining any party. Power changes more frequently in corporate than in politics !! Avoid taking sides in office conflicts and maintain a neutral stance and say what you think is right & preserve professional relationships.

?? Stay Informed: Stay informed about organizational changes, developments, and dynamics to anticipate potential political challenges and adapt accordingly.

?? Build Trust, Relationships and Mentors: Cultivate positive relationships with key stakeholder / mentors who would stand by you, "even when you are wrong". These experienced people would guide and support you to navigate political situations more smoothly.

?? Choose Your Battles: Selectively engage in office politics only when necessary, focusing on issues that directly impact your work or the team's effectiveness.

?? Do not rush, Take Time: Do not rush to take any decision. Give time. Life Delhi pollution, it would also vanish in sometime. Have Patience.

Mostly, what we think is bad suffocating politics is a monster created out of a mole by our overthinking and over gossiping.

We should view this as a matter of navigating relationships than world is out there to sabotage you. Honestly, we are not that big?(yet) !!

Most of the office politics can simply be about navigating relationships. Building rapport, understanding the needs of various stakeholders and collaborating effectively.??By adjusting our perception and viewing interactions with an open mind, we may find that the workplace is a lot more supportive than we actually think.

What do you think and how do you manage?

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