quiet fridays newsletter ed4: Surviving office politics
Let’s talk about a tough one: office politics.
For introverts, endless networking and subtle power plays feel like a game they didn’t sign up for. When authenticity is your superpower, “pushing an agenda” feels as unnatural as wearing a cape to a meeting. But here’s the reality: politics exist. And ignoring them doesn’t make them go away.
Kim Scott, author of Radical Candor, reminds us:
“When you care personally and challenge directly, you can navigate the politics with integrity.”
Insight:
Politics ≠ Scheming
Politics aren’t inherently toxic; misuse of power makes them harmful. For introverts, the challenge is finding a way to navigate the system without compromising authenticity.
Adam Grant puts it well:
“Authenticity means erasing the gap between what you firmly believe inside and what you reveal to the outside world.”
Your goal isn’t to “play the game”; it’s to align your actions with your principles while still contributing meaningfully.
Inspiration:
Know the Game to Stay Authentic
Introverts don’t need to change who they are—they just need to understand the rules.
Robert Greene’s 📚The 48 Laws of Power sheds light on power dynamics. For introverts, it’s about awareness, not manipulation. Spot the patterns, avoid traps, and advocate for ideas authentically.
Reframe:
Replace Alliances with Advocacy
Advocate for ideas, not just people. Use your quiet influence to elevate meaningful discussions.
Amy Edmondson, who coined psychological safety, says:
“Teams that thrive are the ones where people feel safe to speak up without fear of retribution or ridicule.”
Reflections:
Challenge yourself
If you’re silent in the wrong moment, you might unintentionally contribute to the problem. The next time you feel the urge to stay quiet, ask yourself: “Will my voice make a difference here?” If yes, speak up with purpose.
Politics might never disappear, but neither will your values. And when you lead with authenticity, you’ll always be playing the long game.
Here’s to quiet fridays to recharge that lost energy,
Sadaf Javed
Executive Coach & Founder
P.S. Tired of playing the office chess game? Let’s explore how coaching can help you navigate the noise with confidence.
