How can we unwrap the emotions of others who feel wronged in some way?
Have you ever been blamed for things you had no hand in or that are out of your control? People assume you have done something wrong even if it is outside of your control. Why is it easy to blame others in these situations? Like cracks in the earth’s surface, blame causes cracks in the formation of positive relationships and quality interactions. These issues are often misunderstandings that cause emotional earthquakes. If you are on the receiving end of someone’s emotional outburst, you can feel a sense of guilt even if you have done nothing to this individual.
Show compassion, understanding, and apologize if necessary. At times, a simple apology can defuse a lot of misunderstandings. Often, we find out that based on the decisions or actions a person takes, a negative impact occurs. This is where they may not acknowledge their decisions but instead blame others. Of course, this is not always true. The point is to be accepting of the person and value their thoughts and opinions. When we show others’ attention, we limit the impact of their outbursts on us.
Seek to understand their side of the issue. This starts with active listening. We must listen closely without interrupting the person sharing their side of an issue. Sometimes people just want to be heard. We have all probably experienced a person mad at something and if we allow them to share or vent their frustrations, it often defuses their anger. People who are upset just want to be heard.
Help them see your side of the issue. This is often difficult when someone is emotional. They feel wronged in some way and getting them to see your view will be a hard sell. They will need a reminder that you listened to them. It is important for us to share with transparency. We should not stretch the truth but be very clear on our view of the situation. It is also ok if we agree to disagree. There is no doubt that we will fail to see all sides. It shows great maturity when we can disagree on any issue and still work and interact side by side.
Find common ground if there is any, no matter how small it is. This is easier said than done but we still need to make a solid effort and try. Everyone must compromise and see the opposing side of an issue before any changes can be made. For the most part, people are good. They want the best for those they work with and the organizations they serve. That is our common ground; common good for all and creating a world we all can be happy with. Behind those negative and emotional outbursts is someone who wants happiness and positivity. We all wish for the same things.
How can you show compassion to people blaming you for a situation?
Can you see the other side of an issue that is causing someone distress?
How can you explain the situation from your perspective in a positive way?
What are some common pieces to the puzzle we share with others?
We can become very frustrated when people blame us for how a situation impacted them. In some cases, people will lash out at us even when we have done nothing wrong. Leaders see this often. Leaders receive the blame for things, just because they are the leader. Therefore, it is important to look past any emotional outburst people send your way because there is good in them. I hope you have had an amazing week so far, with wonderful interaction with those around you. Please leave a comment below that will add to this conversation.
Steven C. Bucks- Leading Conversations
~Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member~
