From the OUTSide IN: Firing Office Politics
by Souldancer
If a coworker suddenly, physically burst into flames, what would you do?
Seriously!
Imagine a coworker all of a sudden flaming out like a marshmallow that got too close to a campfire flame. Would you sit or stand there and observe, quietly, wondering how such a thing could happen? Maybe you internally laugh and think, “wow – too bad! But hey, they deserve it!” How about calling, texting or emailing your superiors to complain that they’re making your space a bit to hot for your comfort.
Can you imagine doing any of the above? If someone were actually, physically on fire, I’d hope you come to their rescue in some form or fashion.
Sadly, office politic fires often burn out of control while people stand by and wonder, “gee, do I dare do something? Can I do something?” Instead of hearing snap-crackle and pop of a typical fire, you hear endless whining, bitching, complaining, criticizing, ego-banging all burning your time and energy! Possibly worse yet, YOU ARE the air that fuels the fire! Let’s hope not! Your days are numbered if they are – guaranteed.
Guaranteed you say! Rather bold statement there ehh?
Not really. Over the past two decades, offices large and small hire me to deal with lethal levels of office politics. I’ve seen just about every conceivable combo platter of toxic-producing workfare one can imagine. I must admit, I do give some folks credit for ingenuity! I’m known for taking a no-nonsense approach balanced / tempered with compassion and ethics. As we wind-down office politics at their core, those who wish NOT to play well with others find themselves with a well documented termination notice. Why? Well, the old saying is so true! “Where there’s smoke, there’s fire!”
WARNING! Don’t attempt being the office politic fire-brigade without proper training.
Why? Simple! Have you ever watched any TV show who features a master at something – say – cooking. In 30 minutes, you watch a master chief whip up amazing things almost as if they waived a wand and WAAA LAAA – there’s a 10 course meal for dozens all made from three loaves of bread, a can of tuna and a box of juice! What you DON’T see on that TV show are the decades of experience that master chef brings to the table. By the end of the show, you think to yourself, “Hey! That looks easy! I can do that!” And – maybe you can! More often than not, sometimes reality needs a reality check.
Based on the notion that wise people know their limits, know YOUR limits when it comes to tackling any office drama, large or small. Respect those limits, please. Pushing the limits often ends up with a fried mind and a drained body ready for just about any illness out there. Remember, stress kills – in many ways.
As we all know, fire needs oxygen to burn. Without oxygen, fire quickly dies. In office politics, ‘attention’ is equal to air. If at all possible, simply stay away from office politics in all forms. That other old saying is true too! “Only YOU can prevent forest fires!”
Well, that’s all well and good for some. What about those stuck with having to pay attention to office politics (such as a manager, etc.) Here, I suggest you begin with learning the facts about as many sides to the issue as possible. Facts only please! When folks weave in their personal drama’s, fictions, etc. – redirect the conversation to facts only. You’ll be absolutely AMAZED at how quickly the “facts fire-extinguisher” works. How does this work?
Once you have substantiated, mutually respected facts on the table, you now have THE MOST POWERFUL tool to rapidly dissolve most office issues. How? Well – since this article is already getting to be too long, let’s simply say – “engaging the facts like water being poured onto a fire.” Put fires out quickly with ‘just the facts” and only the facts. If some of those facts mean the dousing those smoldering embers – don’t hesitate to do so! Why? Would YOU like to watch someone burn?
I hope not!
Do you need help implementing this suggestion? Questions? Comments? Email them to sd@souldancer.org or comment below!
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Souldancer is known as the Founder of Souldancer Network and principal teacher of souldancing. Souldancing gracefully, ethically, joyfully expands the ability to give and receive without worry, shame, guilt or pressure. Students, clients, researchers and related professionals speak of Souldancer as a corporate shaman, ethics guide, inspirational teacher, uncanny intuitive and spiritual guide. He’s a published author, internationally recognized key-note speaker and talk radio show host.
Souldancer’s wisdom flows from more than two decades of diverse spiritual practices. He earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Minnesota in human relationships and a master’s degree in social work. His corporate client list includes American Express, IBM Global Services, Wells Fargo and the American Red Cross. His travels to 30+ countries and more than a dozen leadership awards confirms his passion to be of service. Souldancer practices each day to live a culturally competent, spiritually awake and aware life.
For more information on Souldancer, visit his official site at http://souldancer.org.
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Good stuff! I’m dealing with this exact situation right now, and I’ve been doing my best to keep my distance from it and not get involved. It hasn’t been easy, but it’s nice to hear someone else thinks that’s the best way to handle it. Next time I feel myself getting dragged into things, I’ll just remember–”Deprive the fire of oxygen, and it will go out.” Thanks!