What I have learned about people and organizations...so far.
What About Really Difficult People?
I use the term “really difficult” because, I hate to break it to you, most of us are “difficult” in some way or another. Thankfully, most people do not fall into the “really difficult” category. Unless we have some level of authority over a person, and can deal with their dysfunction directly, we are left with just a few options. Here are my thoughts:
- Find at least one (hopefully more) redeeming quality and focus on it/them.
- Set boundaries such as limiting time spent together to only essential matters.
- Don’t expect them to ever be different.
- Fight the natural inclination of feeling contempt.
How do you “Respect Yourself?” Do it by first demonstrating respect to those at your workplace, social settings and at home. Avoid the plague of contempt and exercise discipline by holding others in a place of honor. Remember that “respect not expressed is not respect.”
Directive: Avoid drinking the contempt cocktail (disgust plus anger). Actively practice expressing respect.
Respect or Contempt.
It is Our Choice.
Respect really does not come naturally. Confucius said, “Without feelings of respect, what is there to distinguish men from beasts? So how do we express respect toward our coworkers, boss, spouse, children and friends? Here are ten recommendations:
- Listen carefully to people.
- Look every person in the eye.
- Avoid making assumptions by getting all the facts.
- Allow people to make mistakes.
- Ask people questions about their life.
- Choose to produce excellence in your work environment.
- Receive criticism graciously.
- Be an all-weather friend that people can count on.
- Greet people warmly and enthusiastically.
- Follow through on the commitments you make.
"All growth is a leap in the dark, a spontaneous unpremeditated act without benefit of experience." Henry Miller
