In previous posts I’ve written about 1) Tough, Unpopular Decisions, and 2) Supporting Tough, Unpopular Decisions.

And in the latter post I made the comment that supporting someone else’s tough decision, and choosing to stand by them in the midst of its unpopularity, is significant — and very different from simply being a “yes” person.

A “yes” person is typically operating out of a position of fear — unwilling to stand against particular positions or decision-makers for fear of what might result — a lost job, strained relationship, change in public perception, etc.

This is different from standing behind someone who has made a tough, unpopular decision.

Standing behind tough decisions, and the “unpopular” people who make them, is tough.

Choosing to stand up, and stand against, decisions that are made can be equally difficult!

Now, as we think about stepping out and taking a stand it’s important to remember:

Not all hills are worth dying on.

In fact, most aren’t.

But from time to time something happens… an injustice is committed and it stirs something so deeply within us that we are compelled to action.

When this happens we need to know how and when to stand our ground… and why we’re doing it!

How do we stand our ground?

Thoughtfully — those we stand against will need to know we’ve thought things through, that we’ve done our homework and have the evidence and/or data to back-up our stance, and they’ll need to see the holes in their own position as well.  There needs to be substance to our argument and position.

Respectfully — if we’re taking a stand, it’s usually against the people with the power, which means we had better approach things respectfully.  If we neglect to be respectful, despite how much we might feel we (or our position) are being disrespect in the process, we will lose our audience.

Passionately — if we’re going to take a stand we had best be prepared to make it passionately.  There’s nothing worse than a half-hearted revolt that dies out when something better comes along.

When do we stand our ground?

Constantly — we need to be unyielding in our pursuit of change.

Consistently — this ties into our constant, passionate presence… we must be consistent in our message, devotion and desire for change.

Until we are heard — there’s no point in standing our ground in silence and solitude.  Finding the right times and places so that our voices can best be heard is incredibly important when taking a stand.

Until we see necessary change — are we really willing to wait it out?

As long as is necessary — be prepared to make sacrifices — social calendars, appointments, etc. may need to be sacrificed if we’re serious about taking a stand.

Why do we stand our ground?

Because it’s the right thing to do.

Because if we don’t, who will?

The reality is that this will be different from individual to individual, cause to cause, case to case.  But it is something WE MUST KNOW. If you don’t know why you’re taking a stand they you probably should step back and reconsider.

 

What would you add to this list?

What are your “how, when and whys” for taking a stand?