R.J. Rehwinkels said, "The only people you should try to get even with are those who have helped you."
Sir Winston Churchill and Lady Astor would have done well to heed his advice. Those prominent British politicians experienced one of the most bitter relationships in the history of Parliament. Their interactions were filled with conflict, sarcasm, and caustic remarks.
During one legislative session, Lady Astor became so upset with one of Churchill's decisions that she shouted,
"Sir Winston, if you were my husband, I'd poison your tea."
Churchill retorted, "Madam, if you were my wife, I'd drink it."
In many workplaces, colleagues and coworkers emulate Churchill and Astor's stormy relationship by consistently putting each other down instead of building each other up. It's all too common in today's "dog eat dog" job market for positive, uplifting, and encouraging words to be replaced by negative, piercing, and destructive ones.
So, how do you deal with critical co-workers, backstabbing colleagues, and other difficult people in your work
environment? Try applying the following five guidelines for positive working relationships and eventually you'll enjoy a more upbeat, enjoyable workplace.
1. Accept and see others for who they are. Look for their positive strengths and talents rather than their
negative imperfections and shortcomings.
2. Be fully present for others by listening without judging.
3. Treat your coworkers as equals.
4. Try viewing things from the other person's perspective, instead of yours to better understand who they are, what
they think and feel, and why they behave as they do.
5. When all else fails, remember a person who reached out to you. If you must get even with someone, get even with the helpful people in your past by following their example.
Copyright 2004-2005, Joel Garfinkle, All Rights Reserved.
About the Author
Joel Garfinkle helps individuals transition into their dream jobs and leads managers and executives to higher levels of professional and personal achievement. Visit Joel on the web at Dream Job Coaching (www.dreamjobcoaching.com) and Garfinkle Executive Coaching (www.garfinkleexecutivecoaching.com).