Is it Morals, Mission or Politics? Workplace Authenticity in These Times

My coaching has changed over the last few months.  So many of my clients are struggling with what’s happening in the world and how they should show up. 

Many have obligations in their jobs to remain politically unbiased and neutral.  This is leading to leaders feeling suppressed and frustrated that they cannot express their views and concerns. 

Add onto that, many of the issues in the news are impacting their work, their organizations and their missions. They are feeling the need to discuss these issues but are unsure of how to do so in the workplace.

There is an internal conflict occurring in so many today: “I feel compelled to speak up, but what will happen if I do?”  “I am constrained to stay apolitical, but my moral compass is screaming!”

So, what exactly is the difference between a moral compass and a political compass? Both guide decision-making, but they focus on different things.

Moral Compass

• What it is: Your inner sense of right and wrong.

• Guided by: Personal values, ethics, upbringing, culture, and sometimes religion.

• Example: You help a lost child find their parents because you believe it's the right thing to do.

  
  

Political Compass

• What it is: Your beliefs about how society should be run.

• Guided by: Views on government, economy, social issues, and laws.

• Example: You support or oppose universal healthcare based on your beliefs about government responsibility.

Key Differences

Moral Compass

• Personal values

• Right vs. wrong

• Inner guide: Stays fairly constant

Political Compass

• Views on government & society

• Left vs. right (or other political spectrums)

• External systems & policies: Can shift over time

  
  

Sounds fairly straightforward, but they don’t live in separate boxes as the table suggests.  They mix and mingle:  Here’s How They Interact:

• Your moral compass can shape your political views.

• Some people let politics shape their morals, while others base political choices on deep moral beliefs.

• Two people with the same morals might support different political policies to reach the same goal.

  
  

Given all this, it can feel overwhelming to figure out how to show up.  As I work with my clients on this, some insights are presenting to help find ways to be our authentic selves and respect our workplaces missions and rules.

• Ask ourselves why: Why are we feeling this way?  Is a moral imperative, or a political viewpoint.  it’s important to determine which rings truer, acknowledging that it be true for both

• How can I use my voice with my moral compass and not political stance: This one comes down to perspective and language. 

• Come from a perspective of love, respect, and other morals

• Use language about how your heart feels, your empathy, your ethical imperative, and what feels just to you.

• Avoid political terms- right, left, democratic, republican, or any words that can trigger a political lens

  
  

A few things I try to remember in political discussions:

• Listen to understand, not just to respond. Sometimes, just listening can build bridges.  Listening is hard, though, and it takes concentration and practice.  It’s like any other muscle- we need to stretch, practice and use it often.

• Stay calm and centered. When emotions run high, take a deep breath and remember your values.

• Know when to step away. Not every conversation is worth your energy. Protect your peace.

  
  

Our moral compass isn’t just about politics—it’s about how we show up in the world. It’s about making choices that align with who we truly are, even when the world around us feels chaotic.

So, as tensions rise, let’s not lose ourselves in the noise. Let’s lead with character, stay true to our values, and remember that our integrity is one of the most powerful things we have.