Workforce How to Deal with “Difficult People”Three ways to work across deep divisions. For more insight, read “There’s No Such Thing as Difficult People.” October 19, 2018 Share to: Share on X Share on LinkedIn Share on Facebook Email this article How to Deal with “Difficult People” (Slideshow only)Create low-stakes spaces.Plan activities together, such as meals, walks, or meetings focused on generating new options rather than deciding among existing ones. The key is to find settings that let us relax and escape from habitual defensive interactions.Look for patterns in your frustrations.What bothers us in some interactions is often a fear of losing something we are holding onto tightly: status, position, security, certainty, or control. If we see this, we can understand how we are part of the problem and can therefore be part of the solution.Practice letting go.Sometimes we decide we don’t want to deal with certain people if they can’t change, and other times we understand that we have to work with them even if they don’t change. In these situations, we can let go of stubborn attachments that might be contributing to the problems we’re having with the person. Recommended stories How to develop an intrapreneurial cultureFive foundational building blocks can help innovators maximize value creation inside their organization. by David Lancefield Leap to leader: Make yourself heardIn his new book, Adam Bryant shares tactics that up-and-coming leaders can use to prove they are ready for the next challenge. by Adam Bryant A commencement speech for the #quietquitting eraThe expectations that employers and employees have of each other have changed. So what should those starting their careers do to get ahead? by Adam Bryant
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