Why What We Stand For Matters More Than What We Stand Against
In a world where division is loud and ever-present, I believe there is a quiet revolution waiting to happen… a revolution rooted in unity.
We often find ourselves quick to declare what we’re against. It can feel natural to rally around shared frustration, to voice our resistance, to name what we don’t want. And while there’s a time and place for righteous anger and powerful truth-telling, I believe we sometimes miss an even more impactful path: standing for what we do want.
Lead From Love
Here’s why:
When we lead with opposition, we can unintentionally shut people down. No one likes to feel accused, shamed, or attacked, even if they’ve never walked a mile in our shoes. The moment someone feels like we’re “against” them or what they believe in, walls go up. Conversation ends. Change becomes nearly impossible.
But when we speak from a place of love… when we declare what we value, what we dream of, what we hope to build… we create an invitation. We open a door instead of drawing a line. And sometimes, just sometimes, that invitation creates space for real dialogue, real connection, and real movement forward.
For example:
- If you’re against high rent prices, consider standing for affordable housing.
- If you’re against censorship, stand for free speech and open dialogue.
- If you’re against forced medical procedures, stand for medical freedom and body autonomy.
- If you’re against corruption, stand for integrity, transparency, and justice.
- If you’re against bullying, stand for kindness and compassionate communication.
See the shift? One stance divides. The other invites. One incites defensiveness. The other sparks curiosity.
Curiosity Sparks Creativity
And here’s something else: standing for something doesn’t just connect us, it inspires us. When we clearly state what we’re for, we activate possibility. We light the spark of imagination, creativity, and momentum. Even if others don’t fully agree with our stance, it gives them a jumping-off point. It makes space for more ideas, not fewer. On the other hand, when we focus only on what we’re against, it often leads to a sense of overwhelm. We see the problem, but not the path forward. We get stuck in everything that’s wrong without knowing where to begin.
What are some things we can ask ourselves to spark that curiosity even if someone approaches us with what they’re against:
- What kind of world do I want to live in, and leave behind?
- When I imagine a better future, what qualities or experiences are present?
- What lights me up or moves me deeply when I see it in others or in action?
- What injustice or issue makes me want to take action, and what’s the positive change I wish I could see instead?
- What do I wish more people understood, practiced, or cared about?
Choose Unity
Unity doesn’t mean we all agree on everything. It means we’re willing to stay in the room with each other. It means choosing respect over righteousness. It means leaning in, even when it’s uncomfortable, because we believe in something greater than division. It means a willingness to listen.
So today, I’m asking myself:
What am I for?
What kind of world do I want to help build?
And I invite you to ask the same. Because when we begin from that place, we’re not just changing conversations. We’re changing the world.
xoxo – Jessica
PS: Want a place to hang out where we consciously choose unity over division? Join us! https://thebreakthroughshownetwork.com/virtual-community/