Tilt to My Side

I absolutely love office politics. Not because am particularly good at playing it, but because it simply brings out one amazing fact of life which is that as much as hardwork and merit are the way to go, there are other ways of achieving results whether we readily admit it or not.

One thing I like about it is that it brings out one indisputable fact of life, which is that we are all players in the game whether we are prepared or not. Sometimes, some of us opt not to keep playing but it doesn't take us completely out of the game, rather it makes us Martyrs to the outcomes and consequences of not participating.

My ex colleague has been complaining about her workplace and how it seems a new alliance has been forged by two of her supervisors seemingly to her own detriment in terms of the decisions they have been taken. She feels bitter about the whole thing and I try as much as possible to console her, while reminding her that the game of politics is always open to new players. Of course she's not interested, as it sounds morally wrong to be.

Yet I wonder if the game of politics isn't simply one we are expected to master and make a handy tool for life. I haven't seen anywhere some form of politics isn't played, even in the most religious of settings. Politics is all about attaining position of power and influence. For some people it doesn't necessarily mean a change in job description, but they can play very well that they are able to make things happen even from the comfort of their positions.

Point is that we are all players. When it is all said and done, hardwork will elevate but not playing the right kind of politics may hinder long term growth. For me I try to play smart, respecting the opinions of those both above and below me at the office. I've built a voice and it's quite apparent that my opinions are respected, even when people don't necessarily agree.

It's a game we're all playing whether we willingly admit it or not.