Blog
Moving Beyond Tolerance to Genuine Connections in the Workplace
From Steffannie Roaché, MS LPC, Assistant Professor of Practice, Trauma Informed Oregon
Throughout history, the concept of “tolerance” was highly valued. During the crux of the Civil Rights Movement, tolerance acted as a bridge to deeper understanding among communities. However, we now understand that mere tolerance falls short of achieving true equity and justice.
From Tolerance to Belonging: Shaping Inclusive Workplace Cultures
Today, there’s a growing recognition that workplaces must move beyond the simple concept of tolerance, toward actively promoting inclusion and belonging. Employees no longer wish to work in environments where they must tolerate their time at work, nor do they want to feel their presence is only tolerated. Instead, people are seeking places where they are genuinely valued. This shift reflects a deeper understanding of workforce well-being; more specifically emotional, psychological, and spiritual wellbeing at work.
This transition underscores the need for trauma-informed workforce wellness, which prioritizes inclusive well-being initiatives, advocates for equitable policies and practices, and encourages systems to consider the needs of employees who have experienced trauma. By implementing trauma informed approaches, organizations can create healthier, more supportive work environments that promote health equity and foster a culture of inclusivity and respect.
Practical Steps to Build Genuine Connections
Three suggestions for organizations that can help workplace culture move beyond the tolerable:
Wellness Programming
Develop comprehensive programs supporting employees’ physical, mental, and emotional well-being to mitigate toxic stress and foster resilience. Make certain to ask, seek, and listen to employees voices in the development of programming.
Storytelling Circles
Organize workshops allowing people to connect through storytelling. Recently, during a community discussion, a participant shared how their organization uses storytelling workshops, where employees share personal or work experiences about challenges or successes. Their organization brought people together in a comfortable space, offered simple prompts like “a time I felt supported,” and encouraged open, respectful sharing. This allowed people to connect and support one another through storytelling.
Recognition and Appreciation
Show how much you value employees by incorporating or increasing recognition into your workplace culture. This acknowledges and celebrates employees’ contributions.
In essence, as we move away from the limited concept of tolerance and towards genuine connection, we create healthier workplaces built on empathy, understanding, and a culture where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued for who they are.