How to Cope with Difficult Co-Workers

Hopefully you like your career and everything that it entails. A study found that 80% of workers have moderate to severe stress related to difficult co-workers - so you’re not alone. 

  • Reflect on yourself - There are times in our lives when we dislike another person and it’s usually due to this person reminding us of someone who negatively affected us in our lives. Take a step back and remind yourself that your co-worker is not the same person who wronged you in the past. 

  • Use “I” Statements - Communicate your feelings when a co-worker does something that is stressful to you. Always be willing to add suggestions on what you would like your co-worker to do in the future if this situation comes up again.

  • Manage your expectations - Sometimes we have the same expectations of others that we do for ourselves. However our co-workers may not be able to meet them for various reasons which leaves you feeling frustrated, disappointed or angry. 

  • Learn to cope with not having to like everyone and that everyone is not going to like you. This is one of the hardest lessons to learn in life but if you can learn to focus on the work and take the emotion out of it, then you’ll be better off in the long run.

Sources:

https://www.fastcompany.com/3040353/how-to-deal-with-a-coworker-you-cant-stand