Reflections – Believing In People

“When I look at the world I’m pessimistic, but when I look at people I am optimistic,” said Carl R. Rogers.

Reading any newspaper or online article we are met with a variety of company names and brands which trigger associations. Some may be known for their efficient service or for their reliable products. Scandals linger around others, though the culprits might have long gone.

How would you rate the last contact you had with your bank or insurance company? To what extent does the outcome of the transaction impact on your evaluation? And what about the behaviour and attitude of the person behind the counter or at the other end of the phone?

As we go about daily tasks we can so easily make or break the day for those we encounter. When faced with the need to resolve a bureaucratic situation it’s easy to feel the world is conspiring to make things complicated. In reality such matters are rarely so personal.

Those having to deal with us might be tired, worried or frustrated. Our attitude towards them can be the proverbial final straw on the camel’s back or a ray of sunshine through the fog. We can choose to see the person in front of us as an opponent or as a fellow human being.

What we bring to the situation is down to us, we can set the tone. Our attitude can be picked up from our words, body language, appearance and behaviour. If we are relaxed, self-assured and operating in good faith these things will be perceived. As will the contrary.

And yes, there will be times we meet someone who takes twisted pleasure in making things difficult. Though we can’t change anyone, we don’t need to let a negative attitude spoil our day no matter how testing such a person can be.

But I might be wrong. If you’d like to share your thoughts on this issue, please leave a comment below. In the meantime, thanks as ever for reading this today.

Brian.
www.bgdtcoaching.com