Ageism in the Workplace – A Spiritual Approach

We can rise above any issue, including ageism, when we approach it from a spiritual perspective. In subscribing to a culture with hues of ageism, we may very well be forgoing one of spirituality's greatest gifts to humanity— the gift of wisdom that comes with age.

Anytime we apply any sort of bias based on age or any other superficial criteria, we are coming from our ego. The ego is concerned with physical world considerations like appearances, status, possessions, and popularity, to name a few.

However, life experiences are what give us substance, depth, and wisdom. So it stands to reason that the more life experiences we have, the greater our capacity to extend compassion, empathy, integrity, patience, and other soul-based virtues. These are the key qualities of being an effective member of a team, any large organization, and ultimately humanity.

If you feel you may be experiencing ageism in the workplace, consider the following steps. 

First, empower yourself. Having access to knowledge and information is power. So, gather your data and come up with as many specific, detailed examples as you can to illustrate your concerns and importance to the organization. You can also ask other trusted individuals within the organization if they have insider information. However, be careful not to engage in gossip; gossip is low vibration, and we want to stay elevated in high vibrations. The intent here is to gather information, not to rally the troops to take your side. 

Next, trust your intuition. If you feel like something is off, honor that feeling. Pay attention to the vibes you're picking up. Do they feel pure and genuine? Or does it feel like something is off? It may be hard to pinpoint what exactly may be off, but honor what your intuition tells you. That's your soul speaking to you.

Once you're aligned with your intuition, take it a step further and identify your true emotions. Find a quiet place to sit and reflect on your situation. How does the scenario make you feel? What emotions are bubbling up? Are you feeling frustrated, discouraged, sad, left-out, or angry? For each emotion you identify, go a layer deeper. For example, if you feel frustrated, what in particular is frustrating you the most? Journaling is a great way to process your thoughts and help crystallize them. There is no wrong way to journal. Just take a pen to a piece of paper and write away. Stream of consciousness journaling is particularly effective in getting to the root of your feelings. Just write whatever thoughts flow, without feeling the need to edit them or place any judgment on yourself.

Next, ask yourself this question, "Is the issue real or perceived?" When we come from an emotional place, it's always a good idea to do a quick "realness check" to make sure the observed biases aren't just perceived. Our emotions sometimes tend to project how we're feeling on the inside and then attribute it to others' behaviors.

Does it stem back to a prior experience? Does it remind you of a challenging time? Do some deep soul work before you voice your concerns.

After you gain an understanding of where your feelings are coming from, speak up. Raise your concerns with leadership. But as you do, respond, don't react. Take a deep breath, and remember you will get through this. Request time with your boss or the appropriate person in leadership, and tell them you have some concerns you'd like to discuss when they have the time and space for said conversation.  

But be sure to go into the conversation prepared. List out the points you'd like to raise and clearly state your intent rather than just launching into all the ways you feel like you're being slighted (which you may feel pulled to do, especially when driven by emotion). Here's an example: "My intent is to share my concerns about experiences with ageism so that together we can work toward creating an atmosphere where everyone feels valued."

Incorporate "I feel" statements when communicating with leadership. These statements are incredibly powerful.

People understandably can get defensive and be less likely to have a productive, compassionate conversation.

It's also important to embody a spirit of appreciation when communicating. Gratitude goes a long way in any situation, so thank them for taking the time to talk with you. Offer your help in working through this issue, either in additional conversation with other people, or by taking an active role in offering suggestions for change in processes or best practices. 

Finally, remember you have a choice. If the morals and values of the organization you work for aren't in line with your own, consider working for a more congruent company with who you are and what you stand for. You want to be in an environment that allows you to flourish personally and professionally. We can't operate from our highest selves when we aren't in a space that will enable us to live our beliefs out loud.  

In the long term, organizations driven by spiritually-based principles and initiatives, and are focused on values that appeal to the human spirit, will outpace their competitors who are making decisions that are purely based on shorter-term, ego-based measures. So speak your truth and help your organization rise and improve.