Choose your battles

There will always be things every now and then in the workplace that tick you off or even make you unhappy. Before you go looking for a fight, think about;

WHY DO YOU CARE? What’s the issue that bothers you and why do you need to pursue it? Sometimes thinking things over will show that you are probably just upset for some minor reason but nothing concrete. There may be an issue, but if your emotion is clouding your judgement, give your self time to calm down so that you can pursue the matter in a level headed manner.

WHO IS YOUR 'OPPONENT'? Focus any battles on issues not personalities. However, the reality is that whether you succeed in your case or not depends on who are dealing with. Show respect and raise your issues with the intension of finding a solution. Avoid ‘no nos’ such as name calling, drawing hasty conclusions or second guessing the noble intentions of another.

WHAT'S YOUR ALTERNATIVE? Is there another way round the issue? If you think not, what risks are you prepared to take?. What is the likely fall out for you if things don’t go as smoothly as you’d like in seeking to resolve your issue? On the other hand might it all be worthwhile? Point is know where you want to go with this; do your homework and have a plan.

AND WHEN THE FIGHT COMES TO YOU?. Sometimes you don’t choose the battle but someone picks a fight with you. Don’t respond in reflex mode by hitting back even before you know what the issue is. You do have the right to expect decent behaviour from others in the work place so don’t allow yourself to be disrespected. If the person has a genuine grievance against you, especially if you are their manager, try not to ignore it.

Now take action: How can you respond better when you feel aggrieved?