While work-life might offer education on skills, rarely does it help us understand how to get along with those around us. This is ironic because research reveals that poor relationship skills is the number one derailer for professionals.
As I work within companies, I find that at the heart of the greatest project failures is a damaged relationship, a lack of communication, or a lack of motivation. Rarely does the problem involve implementing the change for which I was retained.
Try this. In your next meeting, look at the people around you. Don’t stare openly like a creeper, but do pay attention to their behavior. I promise, you’ll find that the people in that room do not differ significantly from those with whom you played in 6th grade.
In that conference room, you might just recognize:
When team issues come around, just remember that we’re all still on the playground doing the best we can with the DNA we’ve received. There are very few true bad guys, and absolutely no perfect individuals.
We all want to be acknowledged, and valued, and included. The very factors that make us annoying are also the ones that will help us succeed. If you want to figure out how to handle a teammate, try this:
Generally, this works. If it doesn’t, then just try to stay away from that person. Avoidance isn’t always a bad strategy. But most of all, try to always engage in fair play.
Life’s a playground. There will be confrontations, but there will also be amazing fun to be had. Enjoy it.
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