I know we have all had them, been them or know someone who is one. The true definition of what sandpaper is used for is to ' remove material from surfaces; to make it smoother, remove a layer, or make it rougher in preparation for something additional.
Now lets think about this.... when your mindset shifts, you are allowed to see it for the TRUE DEFINITION. It's always easier to see what the person did TO you, but have you ever stopped to realize what they have done FOR you?
This could be an opportunity to remove a layer, smooth you out or prepare you for someone who is waaaaaaay worse then they are!
For instance, that one person that is always tests your patience: You see them coming, just the mere thought of them sends you shaking your head, rolling your eyes and preparing for the interaction on defence. Have you ever thought, what if this IS a TEST of my PATIENCE and everytime you interact with them you FAIL, with a big ole' fat red 'F'.
In this scenario, if you are clearly thinking of what you can learn or benefit from this situation your entire interaction can shift. Most of the difficult people in our lives, know that they can get under our skin. They thrive on it. So the more you allow it .... guess what -- the more they will continue.
Try flippin' the script. Try doing something out of the ordinary. Don't consider it being 'fake' or not sincere but just watch the outcome. If you are normally combative, dismissive, or just plain annoyed when you interact or see them coming your way -- how about being welcoming, inviting, and understanding to whatever the topic may be at hand. Involve them in conversation. If they want no parts of it, you know that it is them and NOT you. But continue to do YOUR part -- the only person you can control is YOU.
A good way to keep track of this is to journal the interactions and outcomes for just a week. Or track every time you interact with that person until you can see a clear deliniation of how THEY change how they interact with YOU and the steps you took to change your midset about the interaction.
Midset shifts are powerful. Release your inner power and watch the magic happen!
Until next time... Coach TeeVette
