Introduction
Since no man is an island, it is convenient to learn how to handle other people in our lives. Before handling other people, it is worth noting that people are different. Some people are difficult to handle or impossible, while others are easygoing. An efficient way of dealing with other people is characterized by changing how we perceive them, drawing boundaries, and listening to them.
Main body
When handling other people, it is essential to note that it is good to focus on changing yourself first instead of changing other people. You may not succeed in changing other people. Changing the way you look at circumstances and how you respond to them is the best way of handling them.
Drawing boundaries is another important factor when dealing with others. It should always be clear to other people what you can stomach and what you cannot. Without boundaries, you can easily be manipulated by others. Having your own space and protecting it; is the key to earning respect from other people (Chodorow, 2011).
Your position in everything should be well known. Anybody invading your territory should be communicated to and shown the boundaries. Many people do not realize when they invade your time and space unless they are told. When your boundaries are abused, then you have to act. First of all, remind them, and if it does not work, then draw a clear line. It is important to meet the needs of other people, but it is equally important to meet your own needs. Sometimes, it is advisable to ignore them. When ignored, they will turn to somebody else. Ignoring them also helps them reflect on their behavior. Paying attention to the way such people are treated by others may help in learning how to cope with them and their stubbornness. Playing a silent third party role helps in observing how the other party handles them (Aaron, 2009).
Some people behave the way they do because they want to be heard. Always give a listening ear first and be empathetic to them. An act of kindness towards them is also useful in helping them (Reinking & Von der Osten, 2011). Always assist other people whenever you can. Most people are always looking out for help, but they do not know how to ask for it. Letting them have control of their problem is also advisable as it makes them dependent.
Being calm during arguments helps maintain a constructive and healthy argument. Reactions like crying and uttering words of anger only add salt to the injury. Detaching yourself from the situation and ignoring the deeds helps in reducing the tension. Instead of contributing to the arguments, you can instead focus on anything positive that will redirect the conversation.
Conclusion
Blaming yourself or the other person cannot help in solving any matter. When dealing with other people, you do not need to be too close to them or compromise yourself; a little act of politeness surely helps when dealing with other people. Changing the way we handle other people entails helping them be at their best. It helps in making them feel wanted and recognized. In cases where the situation gets out of hand; always lookout for help. Look out for people who understand you and can accomplish your needs.
References
Aaron, J. (2009). Little, Brown Compact Handbook with Exercises. London: Longman.
Chodorow, S. (2011). Writing a successful research paper: a simple approach. Indianapolis: Hackett Pub.
Reinking, J. & Von der Osten, R.(2011). Strategies for successful writing: rhetoric, research guide, and reader. Upper Saddle River: Prentice-Hall.