“It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.”
~Epictetus
Do you have a co-worker or boss who is obsessive compulsive? Our industry is detail oriented. Our tasks are precise and on point. Having this character trait is an asset and allows us to be excellent at what we do. But it can also be damaging to those around us.
Have you made note of the bean counter or controller taking details to the extreme and constantly correcting you it in front of co-workers and patients? They are the only one who is right and knows who is right. Their tone of voice is demanding and demeaning. It seems as if every time you turn around there is confrontation and conflict. I’ll bet you have made many a mental note, and you’re just waiting for the next bean to fall, snap, and by-golly, you’re out the door.
STOP.
You are about to snap and do something unprofessional that you will regret later.
We received a call this week from a dental professional who was frustrated on the job and ready to walk out the door. She said, “I took a deep breath, bit my tongue and made it until 5:00 p .m. I need to talk to someone, so I called you.” She was so upset that she felt walking out the door was her only option. She decided right then and there to abandon her 12-year dental career. But in the next breath, she said she loves her job, her co-workers (with exception of one person) and her patients. The sadness in her voice was profound.
Our mental and physical health is important. You are in control of YOU.
The first step is to look in the mirror. It’s about YOU. How you choose to react to working with this type of personality is critical to your health and wellbeing not only in your professional life, but your personal life too.
If you are work with one of these personality types, here are five tips to say out loud as you look in the mirror:
1. I will remain professional
2. I will let it go (sing the Disney song in your head). If the situation or task does not matter and has no effect on your performance, SMILE and let it go!
3. I will not take it personal, especially when their action to be controlling is at its peak.
4. I cannot control another person’s behavior
5. I will give thanks. Praise their attention to detail and be thankful for the contribution.Take it as an educational moment, you’re sharpening your skills.
Often when you take a negative and turn it to a positive, you feel better. If the situation is still volatile and affecting your ability to do your job, the next step is to talk with your HR adviser and/or manager to discuss the problem. Remember to try and keep it constructive as you describe the ways their action is impacting your work.
Don’t be the bean that snapped. Look in the mirror and take control of how you react as you look forward to tomorrow at the office. You’ll be glad you looked in the mirror and smiled.
- Don’t Let Nasty Weather Blow Your Office Off Course - July 29, 2020
- Giving = Learning|Do You Work With A Helper? - January 31, 2018
- Employment Application – How does yours stack up? - January 24, 2018