Category Archives: Leadership

#78 “Surrounded by idiots”

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This is a line spoken in some movies and TV series. It is a line heard in almost every workplace. When this thought enters my mind, the words of the Buddha ring true:

“Should a seeker not find
a companion who is better or equal,
let one resolutely pursue a solitary course;
there is no fellowship with the fool.”

Unfortunately, life is not that simple. You can’t abandon or ignore your “stupid” co-workers like turning off a switch. You have to put up with co-workers who do things you consider “stupid.” Even you will do things that you consider “stupid” and now you have to put up with yourself. Besides, your co-workers are putting up with you are they not?

If you can truly suspend judgment, you can take advantage of  inefficiencies and weaknesses, and make a valuable contribution. If you can’t, you will find yourself a new job, but you will take this gaping hole in your leadership capabilities with you.

Life is short, so don’t wait too long to decide whether you will work on your weaknesses in your current job or in a different job.

You can never be perfect, maybe it makes sense for you join a team where you will be a better fit. In this is the better option, working on your weaknesses in your current job is probably a waste of time.

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#77 Passive aggressive

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Passive aggressive behavior abounds in the workplace. I was horrified to learn someone has written a book on the subject. This confirms my worst nightmares that the behavior is widely prevalent, and common enough for someone to research the subject.

Without pretending to be scientific, here are some reasons why I think it happens:

  • Fear of conflict: You like peace and harmony so much that you don’t realize that passive aggressiveness leads to a drop in peace and harmony.
  • Laziness: It is too much work to stand up for yourself.
  • Fear of public failure: Why go head to head with an “enemy” stronger than yourself, guerrilla warfare has already proven to be more successful.
  • Lack of skill: If you don’t know how to frame up a negative thought into a positive, and inspiring one, you are going to default to “fight” or “flight.”
  • Lack of willpower: It is easier to give into your negative emotions and find a “release” with (passive) aggressive behavior. Depending on how bad your habit is, it is going to be a slog to develop the willpower to change.
  • “Tuning fork syndrome:” This means your behavior is dictated by the norms you see in the workplace. You lack the inner conviction to stand up for what is right.

First step is to observe yourself, develop the self awareness that you are passive aggressive. Keep  observing yourself till you get sick of your behavior and are ready to change. The rest should follow automatically. If it does not, read my book to find out how to accelerate your change.

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