It’s been said that politics and religion are areas to avoid in the workplace, but avoiding isn’t always a good thing, especially when you want to build valuable relationships with colleagues. While the workplace is a professional environment, it is also an environment filled with people who have feelings and opinions. Like it or not, what happens in our personal lives, our beliefs, and our political perspectives are directly tied to our values and are an essential part of who we are.

In the workplace, we are taught to avoid talking about personal matters. But, avoiding conversations about personal matters can sometimes do more harm than good, especially if the idea is that people should be able to bring their whole selves to work.

Here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when facing sensitive issues within the workplace

1. Know the Rules

While freedom of speech is a right for all Americans, it does not apply in all situations. When it comes to the workplace, our First Amendment right to freedom of speech applies to government employees, it does not constitutionally protect private-sector employees unless an employee can prove in a retaliation claim they are using such speech or expression as a matter of ‘public concern’.

The term ‘public concern’ is defined by the Supreme Court through various court rulings.

Tip: Check with your HR department before you express your religious beliefs or political views through attire, office space accessories (banners, stickers, books), or backgrounds on zoom/skype videos. Know the policy first to avoid disciplinary action. You don’t want to violate workplace rules under the idea that freedom of speech covers you.

2. Know the Temperature

My clients often ask if it’s appropriate to talk religion or politics and I give them this rule: Don’t bring it up, but if you are asked be honest without condemning the other person. Basically, you need to keep it light. You can share your views without making others feel bad about theirs. Even if you don’t agree with the views of your colleagues, you should never make them feel that they are a bad person because they don’t believe what you believe or see things the way you would.

3. Know When to Walk Away

When you feel like it’s getting too tense, end the conversation. Having different views make for good conversation and debate, but it is important to know your limits during these conversations. When you feel that the temperature is getting too hot, don’t continue to push just because you want to be right or make your point. Being right or even feeling justified is not worth having unresolved conflict in the workplace. For the sake of the relationship, end the conversation on a positive note even if you have to change the topic.

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It is challenging to suppress the desire to not discuss things that are important to you and things that are unavoidable due to societal circumstances. Having deep conversations with colleagues can build trust and can help build valuable connections. Avoidance can leave the impression that you don’t care about things that matter to them and that can often become more damaging than having an honest conversation, especially when it’s uncomfortable.