Whoa, Politics? Right? I Don’t Know What to Do—How About You?

I used to think business and politics could stay in separate lanes. Keep things professional, focus on the work, and leave the heavy debates at the dinner table (or, let’s be real, the internet). But these days? It feels impossible to avoid. We are swimming in a sea of chaos and each of us has strong opinions.

Customers, colleagues, networking events—sooner or later, someone drops a political hot take right in the middle of what was supposed to be a normal conversation. And suddenly, I’m standing there thinking, Whoa. Politics? Right now? Or I am ready to snap back with a pithy comment.

Ever been there?  Not knowing what to say without causing a fight or compromising yourself? You're not alone. I’ve been there. I am there. I am trying a few ways to handle it without losing my sanity—or my business. This is new territory for many of us. When things are scary or chaotic, we need a new skill set to get through the day.

Step One: Breathe. And Maybe Smile (or not).

First things first: I remind myself that I don’t have to react instantly. If someone throws out a strong political opinion, my first move is usually to take a breath, nod, maybe even smile. Not because I agree, but because I need a second to decide my next move.

I used to think I had to be silent, but now I know defending my beliefs can be powerful. Sometimes, the best response is an assertive one. Simply saying, "I disagree because..." can move the conversation along.

Step Two: Find the Common Ground (It’s in There Somewhere)

This one takes practice, but I try to focus on where we align rather than where we clash. Maybe we both care about small businesses thriving. Maybe we both want strong communities. Maybe we just both really love coffee and that’s enough for today.

If a conversation starts veering into “uh-oh” territory, I’ve learned to gently steer it back to safer ground. “I hear you. You know, that reminds me—how’s that project going?” Shift. Redirect. Escape hatch activated. This can be challenging, and its up to you to know when and where the line is crossed for you (and your business).

Step Three: Know When to Bow Out

Not every discussion is worth having, and not every person is worth debating. If someone is really pushing an agenda and I can feel my blood pressure rising, I can disengage. My health and sanity are important.

You can try…  “I respect that we see things differently, and I’d rather focus on what we do well together.” It’s firm but polite. Clear, but not confrontational. And if they keep pushing? That tells me everything I need to know about whether this is someone I want to keep working with.

Step Four: Protect My Space

I used to worry about whether taking a stand (or not taking one) would cost me business. But here’s the thing: my business, my rules. If my core values are important to me, they should be reflected in how I run things. That doesn’t mean shouting them from the rooftops, but it does mean creating an environment where I feel good about the people I work with.

That might mean:

  • Setting a respectful tone in my business interactions
  • Choosing collaborations with people who align with my ethics
  • Politely distancing myself from customers or colleagues who repeatedly cross a line

I don’t have to change anyone’s mind, and I don’t have to let them change mine.

Step Five: Remember the Bigger Picture

I remind myself why I’m in business. It’s not to debate politics all day (unless that is your business). It’s to create, serve, build, and grow. If a conversation is pulling me away from that, it’s not worth my time.

So, yeah—politics? In business? It’s messy. It’s awkward. And sometimes, it’s unavoidable. Mistakes will be made and the chaos will end (hopefully). But I don’t have to let it derail me. I can set boundaries, keep my focus, and stay true to what matters to me.

What about you? How do you handle it?

Sandra Lee Schubert/Creative Vagabond ©All Rights Reserved, 2025 

Creative Vagabond: Transforming Ideas into Engaging Content. Articles. Courses. Blogs. E-Books. Social Media. Text Us. 347-418-1157

This content reflects my business & personal input and style, with the assistance of AI tools like Grammarly and ProWritingAid.

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