We all know them in business, personal and family relationships. Here are a few tips that will make dealing and interacting with the difficult easier:
1. Ask yourself, “How important is this person to me at this moment?” Being careful not to devalue them, certain people have greater or lesser significance in our lives. If the party in question does not hold great regard in your life, are you willing to simply let the issue slide and walk away?
2. How important is this issue? Will it matter ten years from now? If not, let it go. It is not worth your time and effort.
3. Can you accept the person as they are? If you do, you must be at peace with him/her so as not to become resentful and angry later on.
4. Can I change my perception of this person? A less judgmental observation allows interaction in a less critical manner.
ie: Perhaps change “controlling” to very insecure”.
5. If the party is an important part of your life set boundaries and guidelines in your relationship.
6. Establish a common ground with them, identify something you both have in common. By doing so, this allows both parties to feel a certain connection and increases the levels of understanding and trust.
7. Build trust. Showing genuine interest and concern in them eases their anxieties and fears, allowing them to feel more comfortable in your presence. Once achieved, they will most likely become more cooperative with you.
8. Bring out the best in them. Avoid allowing their bad behavior to influence how you behave. Find some goodness and focus on that.
9. Remember to be fair and open-minded to what they say, believe, and do. Refrain from criticism and judgments, be understanding and compassionate instead.
10. Some of our greatest gifts in life have been the most difficult people who cross our paths. View them as an important teacher who is enabling you to learn and grow.
We always have a choice to release the person from our lives or to “work” at the relationship. Choose wisely; often it’s irrevocable.