Dear Dr. Mimi,
I have a personal dilemma. I hate my co-worker! They are always so arrogant, and whenever I speak to them, I feel like I am going to lose it. What can I do to put an end to this situation?
—Annoyed
Dear Annoyed,
I can see how this situation is stressful and can make the workplace uncomfortable. There are ways to improve your relationship with a particular person. Start by analyzing your emotions and how they influence you. What are your triggers? Assume they won’t change. So how can you change? Decide how you are going to respond to the next conflict situation and rehearse it. Most people remember how you responded rather than what happened. Give yourself time to prepare, so when you do approach the situation, it can be done wisely and maturely.
—Dr. Mimi