We are social creatures. As Jonathan Haidt often discusses, humans evolved by thriving in cooperative groups. Our ability to work together in families, communities, and across cultures is what allowed us to build civilizations, advance technology, and overcome challenges far bigger than any one person.

But today, that strength is weakening. Our ability to collaborate is being undermined by growing division. One reason for this is that we have come to tie our political beliefs too closely to our identities. When political views become personal, disagreement feels like a threat. Dialogue turns into conflict.

Often, the ideas we hold come from a good place. They are meant to help others and create positive change. Yet, ironically, these well-intentioned beliefs sometimes damage the relationships that matter most, those with family, close friends, and neighbors. When political disagreements get personal, the bonds that support us begin to fray.

The idea that “the personal is political” gained ground during the 1960s. Activists and philosophers like Michel Foucault showed how institutions shape personal identity. While that insight opened important conversations, it also blurred the line between who we are and what we believe. Social media has made this even worse by encouraging performance over connection and outrage over understanding.

As a mental health practitioner, I am often asked about my politics. My response is simple. I am only interested in the journey of the person sitting across from me. That is where my focus belongs. Not on ideology, but on growth, healing, and human connection.

Remember that beliefs are not unchangeable parts of our identity. Sometimes it is healthy to hold a belief lightly. We can pick it up, look at it, question it, and if needed, set it down. Doing this does not mean we lack conviction; rather, it shows we have the courage to grow.

If we want to push back against polarization, we need to reclaim the kind of tribalism that strengthens us. This kind of connection is rooted in care for our families, our communities, and our coworkers. We need to be grounded in one another, not in labels. Our politics should reflect our values, but they should not define our identity.

Let’s keep in mind that we are more than our opinions. Our ability to collaborate opens the door to genuine connection, growth, and supporting one another on our journeys toward becoming the best versions of ourselves. Most importantly, let’s remember what truly matters, the connection, experience, and journey of the person sitting right in front of us.