Difficult People...

My philosophy for dealing with difficult people has always bee "kill them with kindness." I believe that the best way to truly handle a difficult person is to be nice and respectful to them, and hopefully they will reciprocate it. To deal with and understand someone, you must pur yourself in a place to listen to them and understand where they are coming from before making assumptions and taking action against them. If someone sees that you are taking the time to listen to them, then it is possible that that person may try to do that same for you. I think conflict can always be constructive and respectful, and I believe there is no need for name calling and extension-pulling (Real Housewives of New Jersey shoutout!)

I really like the tips about being Relentlessly Upbeat and Embracing Others' Point of View, obviously--but I think that I need to take better advantage of other tips about being Firm, but Flexible. Sometimes I will bend and change my position to keep another person happy and avoid conflict completely, but if I know I am doing the right thing, then I should hold firm and not break.

When I am in a bad mood or being difficult, I usually just like to talk it out. What's on your mind, on my mind, why are we feeling the way we are feeling... etc. etc. etc. I'm a pretty easygoing person and I rarely actually get mad. But, if we are ever in a situation where we are not seeing eye to eye and cant seem to agree, just treat me with respect and an open ear and I will definitely do the same for you.