The Secret to Dealing With Difficult People

Great article from the Harvard Business Review on dealing with difficult people.

Here are my biggest take-a-ways:

1. The problem with being a victim is that you cede the power to the influence your circumstances. 
2. You're not going to change them. The only person you have the possibility of changing is yourself.
3. Use the "reverse lens" and see things from their point of view. Walk in their shoes and try to understand why they feel the way they do. They have a strong conviction for their way of thinking and you of yours; why?

How you deal with difficult people can have a direct reflection on you and your attitude. A difficult person getting you off kilter for a few moments afterward is OK, but if you let it affect you for longer than that it's something you need to address within yourself. Do not give that situation or person power over your attitude!

Look deep within yourself and resolve that you will not let negative people or situations influence your day. Use self affirmations if needed - after dealing with that person, tell yourself that "I'm a great person and handled that situation to the best of my ability. Today is a great day and nobody will change that." Once you've driven this into your subconscious it will become habit and you will quickly and easily overcome these situations.

If there are problems reoccurring with the same person then try the "reverse lens". Everybody always think they're right and it's likely that you're both right, in your own mind, for different reasons. Examining it this way can help you remain calm and not let the situation affect you. However, if the problems continue time and time again you should have a one-on-one with that person and calmly, politely express your concerns over the relationship.

What are your thoughts from the article or in dealing with difficult people in general? I would love to hear from you!