Top 10 Ways to Deal with Bad Behavior
Posted by docapc at 8:00 pm
- Don’t personalize rude behavior. It’s unlikely to be about you, even though it’s directed at you.
- Be aware that rude behavior comes from various sources (sleep deprivation, depression, stress, illness, insecurity, etc.).
- Respond with calmness rather than behavior that escalates rude behavior.
- “An eye for an eye” is a poor approach; don’t turn another’s insecurity into your own.
- Self-righteous behavior only reflects poorly on you; don’t use the opportunity to demean another.
- Try to address the underlying cause of the behavior. (“I can see you are very stressed. Maybe I could help if you tell me what’s bothering you.”)
- When necessary, set limits tactfully and assertively, not aggressively.
- If the conversation remains irrational, know when to quit.
- Don’t assume rudeness is a permanent part of someone’s personality. It is a pattern of rudeness (not one mishap) that determines character.
- In the end, always let empathy — the ability to read others accurately — be your guide in understanding rudeness, knowing how to respond to a rude individual and knowing when to leave the scene.
