What Side Are You On?

Hey leaders, it’s Lepora. 

Let me ask you a question you’ve probably heard whispered—or shouted—in the hallways, in Slack channels, at dinner tables: What side are you on? 

It’s rhetorical, but it’s real. In today’s world, where every headline feels like a litmus test—, politics, faith, identity, responsibility—the pressure to choose sides is relentless. And here’s the truth: your people are carrying that pressure into your workplace every single day. 

Some are exhausted from defending their beliefs. Others are terrified of speaking at all. And many are silently wondering if their leaders even see the weight they’re under. 

So what’s your role as CEO, CHRO, senior leader? It’s not to play referee in every ideological battle. It’s to create a culture of balance and belonging in a polarized world. 

Here's what I'm witnessing: Talented employees are walking on eggshells. High-performers are disengaging because they're afraid one wrong word will label them. Your best leaders are burning out trying to navigate conversations that feel like minefields. 

But here's the provocative question - what if the real leadership challenge isn't about choosing the "right" side, but about creating space for your people to be human? 

I was coaching a CHRO last week who told me her team meetings have become performances. Everyone's performing their "acceptable" opinions instead of bringing their authentic selves to work. Sound familiar? 

The data is screaming at us - employee engagement is plummeting. Psychological safety scores are tanking. Why? Because we've created workplaces where people feel they have to choose between their paycheck and their authentic voice. 

Leaders, your job isn't to solve global conflicts. Your job is to create an environment where diverse perspectives can coexist, where your people feel safe to focus on what they do best - driving results for your organization. 

The companies winning right now? They're the ones brave enough to say: "We're not picking sides in culture wars. We're picking the side of our people, our mission, and our results." 

Your team is looking to you right now. Not to be their political guide, but to be their anchor in the chaos. To remind them that in this building, we focus on excellence, collaboration, and moving the needle forward. 

What side are you on? You're on the side of creating workplaces where people can thrive, not just survive. 

So the next time you feel tempted—or pressured—to take a side, remember this: your real power isn’t in declaring a side. It’s in leading a whole. 

If this resonates, like it, share it, and pass it on to another leader who needs to hear it. And if you want a partner in helping your organization navigate polarization with sensitivity and strength—we will be ready to help.  

Also, share your take in the comment below.