Sometimes, things can feel overwhelming, at work.
Just picking a completely random number here—it can feel like there are 74,696,257 people surrounding you, each ready to assert control, take away your agency, or harm those you care about…at work.
In times like these, things can feel pretty bleak. Sound familiar?
When you’re feeling outnumbered, it’s easy to lose clarity. But there are ways to respond when it feels like everyone…at work…is against you.
Here’s how to regain your power.
Start with a Clear Assessment
Step one should always be to realistically assess the situation.
• Pause.
• Take a deep breath.
• Get grounded.
It’s tempting to react impulsively, but a moment of calm lets you make a more strategic decision. When you’re feeling outnumbered, this is essential.
Once you’ve taken that moment, you might find the odds aren’t as one-sided as you thought. Perhaps, as you look behind you, you’ll see something like 70 million right by your side. And if you look a little farther, there may be even more—let’s just say, hypothetically, another 100 million who could be convinced to join. On the other hand, maybe the numbers really are against you, and the resources you need aren’t readily available.
Whatever the case, take time to see things clearly before proceeding. Then, consider your options.
1. Retreat to Regroup
If the situation is especially hostile, a strategic retreat might be the answer. In this case, stepping back doesn’t mean surrender—it’s simply finding safer ground, gathering allies, and preparing for the next move.
For some, this may mean exploring other positions…at work. It might even mean moving somewhere that aligns with your values and definition of “safe.” Hypothetically, of course, you could start by looking at 15 places that offer a friendlier environment for those seeking change. Of course, relocation takes resources—something not everyone who feels surrounded has easy access to.
Sometimes, retreat is just about laying low and organizing with others who feel equally outnumbered. Retreat can be temporary or permanent, but it’s a strategy worth considering, and no one should feel ashamed to take it.
2. Divide and Recruit Allies
Hostile environments aren’t only challenging for outsiders—those on the inside often feel the strain too. You’d be surprised how many people look solidly “on the other side” yet feel disillusioned and dissatisfied.
This approach involves searching for those cracks in the wall. Connect with people who are feeling disillusioned. Many who act aggressively do so to mask their insecurities. By cautiously reaching out with empathy, you may help them see a perspective they haven’t considered—and maybe even convince them to join you.
It can be tough work, especially if you’re engaging with people who initially seem adversarial. But by sowing seeds of unity, you increase the chances of changing things…at work.
3. Stand and Fight
If the situation calls for it, you may decide to dig in your heels and stand firm. Often, those who seem to hold the power are counting on your fear or your retreat. After all, what gives them their sense of control is your feeling of powerlessness.
But remember, nothing in nature is more dangerous than a small, organized force fighting for its survival. The same holds true…at work. When you’re smart, organized, and unshakable, you’re no longer the easy target they expected. Sometimes, just seeing you stand firm can make them think twice.
If you choose this route, unity among your allies will be essential. True resistance is gritty work, and it’s not likely to succeed alone. Rallying with others who share your vision can make all the difference.
The Work…at Work
Whether you choose to retreat, recruit allies, or stand and fight, facing tough odds is rarely easy to do alone.
• If retreat is the path, you’ll need to coordinate with those who remain.
• If recruiting, be patient and persuasive, ensuring you don’t push anyone into a defensive posture.
• If standing firm, align with strong allies and focus on unity, as going it alone rarely works.
Each strategy has its pros and cons.
However, the one choice we don’t have is complacency.
