It’s Their Fault

By Jeanine Izzo

Okay…so what if it really is their fault?

The majority of topics we write about at Viage Partners have to do with self-leadership.  This entails looking in the mirror first, accepting responsibility, taking corrective and preventative action, seeking higher ground…and the like.

Yet, the reality is that there are circumstances and people that seemingly work against us no matter what we do…or don’t do.

So, what if someone in your managerial chain…

• Really is a jerk
• Truly limits you, cuts you down, prevents you from learning and growing
• Blocks you from getting involved in certain projects
• Fails to communicate important information
• Berates you, ignores you, makes you feel stupid, useless, fearful
• Is late or cancels meetings with you on a regular basis
• Expects you to be available 24/7
• Won’t approve vacation time
• Lacks forethought, clear direction, strategic planning
• Operates in reactive mode all the time
• Takes credit for your ideas/work
• Doesn’t support learning opportunities
• Doesn’t help you in times of need
• Has overly ambitious expectations

What are you going to do about it?

1. Accept it as is and keep being miserable
2. Accept it as is and change your thoughts around the situation
3. Work to improve the situation directly with the person
4. Work to improve the situation by finding resourceful ways to fill the gaps
5. Leave the situation for the first opportunity
6. Leave the situation with a well thought out next step

Forward Moving Tips:

When we are stressed, we typically see just two options…stay or go.  Above there are six options which could easily spin off into more.  True, they may not be ideal, however, the most important thing to remember is that you have a choice as to how to respond to the situation.  Understanding that you have a choice, even if you choose to accept the current situation as is (for whatever reason) helps keep your power with you.

If you are a leader or manager that is consciously or unconsciously creating miserable working conditions, check in on your approach.  Chances are that you will obtain better results, with less strain, by making some alterations.  Who knows, you may even get a better nights sleep!

For assistance with moving forward with more focus, confidence and success along your journey,  Contact Viage Partners today.

© Viage Partners 2014. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Viage Partners with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.