There is no reason to let a difficult person or situation have power over your state of being. Sometimes we encounter those individuals who, for whatever reason, can be difficult to deal with. The behavior/words of difficult people can even make you feel like losing your temper. Keeping your cool and staying calm is important, especially if/when you are ready to confront them.
Avoiding a difficult person is not always in your best interest, especially if you live or work together, this can become a source of stress and anxiety. In these situations, it is best to kindly address the problem while not letting their actions or mood affect you. You may want to think about what you want to say to a difficult person before you actually talk to them to express your feelings directly, ie: tell the person how their actions/words make you feel (without taking on the role of a victim) and when possible encourage them toward a more positive course of action. Another approach for dealing with a difficult individual is to gain a deeper understanding of who that person is by asking them why they do or say certain things, and perhaps guide them to a shift in perspective.
Often a lot can be accomplished when you take the time to listen actively and perhaps offer up alternative perspectives. Try to approach the conversation objectively without being judgmental or defensive. If the person is open to the idea, try coming to an agreement. If approaching them fails, let it go and move on. When this is impossible to do it’s important to find help and get support.
|
Important article. You should do one on the art of listening
Yes, thanks Richard. Look for that soon! I reference it often and it surely needs it’s own blog!