Workplaces are filled with people. And wherever humans gather, there is bound to be conflict.
And love is a choice, even at the office!
Here are some ways to help you better love even your most difficult coworkers. Five Ways to (choose to) Love Your Coworkers:
1. Take a quick look in the mirror to understand your part in it all. Is there really a conflict, or do you communicate or work differently, creating misunderstanding? It's best to avoid sarcasm, inside jokes and assumptions in general in the workplace, until you really, really know someone, and you're sure they "speak sarcasm" too.
2. Talk to them. If there seems to be a real conflict, or a misunderstanding, go to them, one on one, and discuss it.
Approach gently, and just as is suggested in marital conflict, let them know how something made you feel. "I felt disrespected when..." is far better than, "You were disrespectful when..." Because chances are, they didn't intend disrespect. That's what you are trying to clear up. Avoid involving a supervisor or a third party unless you are at an impasse and your job is directly negatively affected by the conflict.
3. Practice empathy. It's often said that hurting people hurt people. And, guess what? We're all hurting in one way or another. I recently heard that our actions are really expressions of need. Helping to understand where a coworker has come from, or is coming from, personally and professionally, might help you with #4.
4. Forgive. Often and actively. Make grace a daily practice.
5. Accept. We really are all pieces of a big ole puzzle. Consider how you fit in, and how your coworkers fit in, and understand that you were built to offer your own unique gifts to the team, as were they. Actively work to respect your coworkers' talents, and how you all work together to make a whole.
Thanks for reading! - Kelly
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