The following is a poem that expresses how people have to suppress themselves in the work environment while everyone claims that we’re all about open-mindedness and acceptance. Everywhere in public people pat themselves on the back for creating safe spaces for mental health and preach inclusion.
Then comes the job interview, or any important decision. Suddenly, in private, people are shamed, scolded, excluded, and rejected for telling the truth to all the fabulous open-minded individuals. On platforms that use hashtags, I’ve coined #LiarsGetHired to express this problematic sentiment and way of life. We need to actually make change instead of making false speeches about how we have already made improvements. I hope you enjoy the poem, and I welcome any comments and discussion.
People would like you if you were less sad
Just keep it to yourself if it’s something bad.
Trust me, they’d love it if you were less real
Adjust what you say, suppress the unideal.
Don’t discuss depression. Success is at stake.
People won’t like you if you make that mistake.
People would like you if you weren’t so loud
You think it’s brave but you shouldn’t be proud
You need to behave and to lower your voice
What you display in public is a careful choice
Instead of hiding you show your every flaw
Without a shred of pride left in a career in law
People like a professional who can take charge
Not a total mess with emotional issues at large
The same people who tell you to be yourself
Judge you if it’s too much for everyone else.
People would like you if you weren’t so true
People would like you if you weren’t so… you.
