I recently led a group session called Zen and the Art of Dealing with Office Politics, where I helped professionals—especially women and underrepresented folks—navigate the messiness of workplace dynamics with more calm and clarity.
We kicked off with a guided brain exercise to shift out of high-frequency beta brain waves (you know, that anxious, go-go-go energy) and into a slower, more grounded alpha state. It’s a small shift that opens up space for creativity and better problem-solving.
Then I walked folks through three key ideas:
1. Power Differential
We named the real (or perceived) authority gaps in the workplace—how power plays out, and why it matters when you're trying to be heard or make change.
2. Conflict Styles
Using the Thomas-Kilman model, I explained the five common ways people handle conflict:
- Compete
- Collaborate
- Compromise
- Avoid
- Accommodate
I talked about how being “conflict flexible” is a leadership superpower—especially if you’re someone who usually avoids or accommodates by default.
3. Personal Interpretation
We explored how your story about what’s happening can either fuel stress or open up new choices. The way you interpret workplace friction directly impacts how you feel and what you do next.
All throughout, I brought in Zen metaphors and references from Asian culture to drive the point home: You don’t have to control every outcome. The goal is to stay present, stay adaptable, and not let office politics hijack your peace.
Download the companion guide HERE.
Watch the full replay on YouTube HERE.
Learn more about my 1:1 coaching HERE.
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