How to Deal With Difficult Coworkers Without Losing Your Mind
Let's be honest.
There's a coworker in every office.
They complain about everything, they are the office gossip, constantly disappearing when the real work needs to be done, or they act like they are always in a competition with someone.
If you've been frustrated by these types of people at work, then this is for you.
You don't need to change them to have a better day.
In my previous article
I wrote about how you should focus on your "part" instead of what others are doing wrong.
That still holds true, but here is some advice that might help you as well.
Don't Take Everything Personally
People can come into the workplace with all kinds of burdens to bare.
Things could have gone bad at home, they could be stressed about money, not enough sleep or even poor health.
Whatever the reason is, it doesn't change the fact that they are rude to you.
It helps to put things in perspective because sometimes an unpleasant coworker isn't mad at you, they are just mad at the world and you happen to be nearby.
Stay Out of the Office Gossip
Sometimes office gossip is harmless, sometimes it's not.
Someone says something about another, everyone laughs, and before you know it you are talking about people that aren't even there.
What you don't realize is that gossip can come right back to you.
If someone enjoys talking about other people with you, they are probably talking about you when you aren't there as well.
The best thing to do is to steer clear of office gossip or change the subject when it comes up. That way you won't find yourself having to defend yourself later.
Set Boundaries
Being a team player doesn't mean you have to be a doormat.
If someone is constantly bothering you, piling work on you, or expecting you to do things you don't have time for it's okay to say no.
Setting boundaries isn't being self centered, it's being smart.
It's one of the best ways to prevent burn out at work.
Choose Your Battles
Sometimes things just aren't worth it.
Here's a simple way to tell.
Ask yourself this question, "Is this worth worrying about next week?"
If the answer is no, it probably isn't worth it.
It might save you a lot of headaches if you let it go.
You might also like this article as well:
Focus on What You Can Control
If you can't control somebody else, focus on what you can.
Show up to work prepared so you don't have to worry about things slipping through the cracks, do your job and be respectful to others even if they don't do the same for you.
You can't change the whole world, but you can stop letting other people affect you so much.
Know When You Need to Speak Up
If something is truly wrong, it's okay to speak up.
Harassment, discrimination, bullying, threats, and other toxic behaviors that disrupt the workplace should be reported to your superiors.
There is a fine line between a coworker that annoys you and a coworker that is truly toxic.
If you feel uncomfortable, trust your gut and report it when needed.
It might not always be easy, but you could be doing others a favor when you do.
Give Yourself Permission to Recharge
A bad coworker should never ruin your whole life.
When your shift is over, it's over.
Try your best to put the day behind you and focus on the good things.
Go home, get your mind off of work, go for a walk, work out, hangout with family or friends, listen to music or read a book.
Whatever you need to refresh your mind, you deserve it.
You can't run on fumes all the time.
Focus on the things that bring you joy and keep you grounded while you're at work.
That way you'll be less likely to react when bad things happen.
Final Thoughts
You might not always have a "dream" place of work, but that doesn't mean you can't handle annoying coworkers.
Remember that you don't need to change other people, just focus on what you can.
Set your own boundaries and avoid letting things get to you.
You might change things, you might not.
But if you handle your day right, it can make all the difference.
So, now our question to you is: "Who was the most difficult coworker you've dealt with and how did you handle the situation?"
Someone else may need your advice in the comments below.
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