The Power of Common Sense at Work: Turning lived wisdom into power in spaces that weren’t built for us.

By: Janis Hillard 

Common sense doesn’t always get the credit it deserves. In the workplace, we’re often told that success comes from advanced degrees, technical nonsense, or knowing how to play office politics. But for many Black and Brown folks, common sense has always been one of our sharpest tools—and one we don’t give ourselves enough credit for.

Here’s the truth: common sense is strategy. It’s noticing what needs to be done before anyone else says it. It’s reading the room, understanding unspoken dynamics, and anticipating the ripple effects of decisions. It’s knowing when to speak and when to listen. It’s seeing through pretense and focusing on what actually works.

Part of what makes this powerful is that our “sense” is deeply connected to cultural wisdom. Many of us were raised to look out for others, to anticipate needs, and to read subtle cues for safety and respect. That upbringing sharpens our awareness in the workplace. For example:

• You notice when a client’s tone shifts and adjust the conversation before it derails.

• You recognize when a decision will create extra labor for the team and suggest a smoother path.

• You catch small details that others overlook—because we’ve learned to pay attention to the whole picture, not just the loudest voices in the room.

  
  

These aren’t negatives—they’re advantages. But too often, cultural wisdom gets brushed off as “soft skills” or – worse – seen as overreacting. The truth is: this is intelligence. It’s practical, human-centered strategy. And it’s a perspective that workplaces need.

As a boundaries coach, I also see common sense as a boundary. It’s what tells you, this doesn’t add up, or that request crosses the line. It’s what helps you protect your time, your energy, and your integrity. Exercising common sense is a way of drawing a quiet but powerful line in the sand.

So instead of dismissing it, start honoring it. Common sense is not only valuable—it’s a competitive advantage. For Black and Brown professionals, it’s a reminder that our perspective, shaped by resilience and lived experience, has always been a form of brilliance.

Because at the end of the day, the smartest move you can make is to trust your sense.