“That’s just how it is.”
Four words. Seemingly harmless, but insidiously powerful. These words lurk in workplace conversations, silently reinforcing systems that stifle innovation, limit progress, and perpetuate inequality. They’re the battle cry of complacency, the anthem of the status quo, and the silent killer of careers.
But here’s the thing: every system, every rule, every norm was made by someone. And if it was made by someone, it can be changed by someone. That someone could be you.
“The most dangerous phrase in the language is, ‘We’ve always done it this way.’” – Rear Admiral Grace Hopper
Why “That’s Just How It Is” Hurts Your Growth
It stifles creativity. Research by the Harvard Business Review found that 85% of employees feel their organizations fail to encourage innovation. Accepting norms without question prevents us from exploring new ways to solve problems or improve systems.
It perpetuates inequality. According to McKinsey’s Women in the Workplace report, women hold just 25% of C-suite roles, despite making up almost half of the workforce. Many workplace norms disproportionately benefit certain groups while marginalizing others. From outdated hiring practices to rigid definitions of leadership, these norms don’t just “exist” — they actively hold people back.
It silences your voice. A Gallup poll revealed that only 30% of employees feel their opinions count at work. When we accept the status quo, we send a message — to ourselves and others — that speaking up isn’t worth it. Over time, we internalize the idea that our voice doesn’t matter, and that’s the real danger.
Breaking Free: How to Challenge the Norms
Question everything. Start small. Is there a process at work that feels inefficient or unfair? Ask why it exists. Who does it serve? What’s the worst that happens if it’s changed?
Advocate for change .You don’t have to dismantle entire systems overnight, but you can propose alternatives. Suggest new workflows. Challenge biased policies. Push for diverse perspectives in decision-making.
Rewrite your own rules . Sometimes, the norms we need to challenge are internal. Are you stuck in a role or mindset because you’ve told yourself “that’s just how it is”? Rewrite the narrative. Your career is yours to shape.
What’s Your Disruptive Move?
This isn’t just a call to action; it’s a challenge. What’s one workplace norm you’re ready to disrupt? Maybe it’s challenging the unspoken rule that women must soften their tone to be heard. Perhaps it’s pushing for flexible work policies in a rigid organization. Or maybe it’s as simple — and as powerful — as saying, “I’m ready for more,” and asking for the promotion you deserve.
The status quo was made to be broken. Let’s start cracking it open.
Drop your thoughts below: What’s one norm you’re ready to disrupt today?
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