Haunted by your co-worker’s recent withering and hurtful jibe at you?
Callously insulted, we want to rise above the name-calling and ignore the petty blasts of the immature. Yet we struggle against the sneaky suspicion that there might be a kernel of truth to the slam.
Why we give others’ opinions so much weight is probably a mystery for the ages. (Or at least for your therapist.)
What matters most, though, is our opinion of ourselves.
When we are overly disturbed or hurt by the jibe of another, it is usually because the words tap into something we believe about ourselves.
While we can avoid negative people to a certain degree, a more effective way forward is to root and establish a healthy estimation of ourselves.
When we are grounded in an accurate assessment of our own strengths and weaknesses, the words of others hold less power when they suggest something different.
When we are secure in our strengths, then any accusations to the contrary roll more easily off our backs.
When we are aware of our weaknesses, then hearing them echoed by others is nothing more than a restatement of reality. While never fun to come face to face with one’s less developed aspects, the twin stings of insult and injury are removed.
Being comfortable in your own skin is no mean achievement. But it is worth the effort. Instead of your state of mind being controlled by others, your opinion of yourself rules the day.
You can begin this week sincerely believing that there’s no one you’d rather go to work with today than you.
If you’d like some help getting a clear, grounded assessment of yourself, give me a call today or sign up for a free 30-minute consultation.
On your side,
– Karl Edwards
