Difficult People Can Be Overcome
There are many types of difficult people. They come in all shapes and sizes. Difficult people hold many different social and economical status. Difficult people make things…well…difficult.
If any one person seeks to alienate, divide, belittle, or in general make a hostile work environment, or makes you dread going to work, they may qualify as a difficult person. They could be a bully, or it could be just a personality clash. Regardless, there are certain things you must do.
First, take away the power they have over you. At the moment, they have control, and you need to get back in charge (for you).
You need to document all paper, e-mails, or vocal exchanges. Suffering, tolerating or ignoring any type of workplace bullying will get you nowhere except in a hospital.
One option you have is to rationally speak with the offender, keeping anger and reactionary response out of it. Mull things over, sleep on it, and talk with co-workers, friends, and family to ensure you’re not being rash.
The difficult person in question will probably talk with others as well and possibly turn others against you. Take your concerns to a higher position, with facts and documentation, (proving you have integrity, respect, and genuine appreciation for your job and other people).
Difficult people can make us disgruntled and leave us feeling disposable. Often times this particular difficult person has lashed out at others, (you are often not the only victim).
“Moral courage is the most valuable and usually the most absent characteristic in men” General George S Patton, Jr
Customarily difficult people have issues of their own and for whatever reason makes them feel better to demean and chastise people that are weaker or are a threat to them. It is in you to regain the power to create your own quality of life.
Let your management know that you want to achieve the goals of your organization, for it is through teamwork and shared goals, principles, and values, that your organization will be able to succeed!
