Dealing with difficult individuals in a professional setting can be both challenging and draining. As an entrepreneur, it's important to prioritise managing your own stress and emotions. This is not to suggest that you are the problem or are responsible for ensuring every interaction goes smoothly by not reacting or matching the other person’s energy. It simply means prioritising your own emotional well-being, maintaining your composure under stress and keeping it professional and representing your business in the best possible light.
Debriefing with a trusted colleague or mentor after a difficult interaction can provide relief and offer new perspectives on how to handle similar situations in the future. Sharing your experiences and getting feedback can help you develop more effective strategies for managing stress and difficult interactions. Techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and regular physical activity can also help you stay calm and centred.
On the other hand, it’s also worth considering the possibility that you might be contributing to the problem. Reflecting on your own behaviour and responses can provide valuable insights and help you identify areas for improvement.
When faced with a challenging interaction, pause and collect your thoughts. Remind yourself that you have a business to run and protect and that you control your reactions, not the other person’s behaviour. Staying calm gives you the opportunity to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively, which helps maintain professionalism and keeps your business's best interests in focus.
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