Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Taking sides without causing conflict
Taking a side—or taking a stance—isn’t inherently contentious. But more often than not, we treat it like it is. We approach or take such things personally. Tell ourselves that keeping the peace is best. And so we stay quiet.
But is that the best thing to do?
When you think about taking a side, be it a stand, a stance, a position, or some other expression of your thoughts, consider your “why.” Are you speaking up to have a positive impact? Are you silent even though silence could cause more harm?
So often people convince themselves that they are taking a stance in “being Switzerland,” in actively choosing neutrality. But when you “choose” to be Switzerland in times when you’re not actually neutral, you betray your own ideals…the consequences can be real.
And real harm can follow.
Taking a “side” doesn’t always mean picking a fight. Sometimes it means refusing to look away and speaking to facts.
Taking a stand doesn’t have to be dramatic—sometimes choosing a side is in choosing not to sit one out. I think this song conveys that:
Everyday processes and large systems alike tend toward inefficiency and injustice when we choose comfort over change. That change begins the moment we choose not to look away.
Wherever you choose to look this week, I hope you have a good one.
And if you need to make some time to help focus your attention, I’ve created this guide to help you formulate and focus your thoughts. Use it alone or with colleagues/your team to help improve your interactions and your outcome:
