A major portion of my job requires me to relate to people. On a daily basis I deal one to one with Residents, staff, family members, and other co-workers in supervisory or managerial positions. One important lesson I have learned in the twelve years that I have functioned as a manager is that often the "key" to solving even the simplest problems lie within the palm of my hand. If I am working with a resident who does not want to cooperate, or one who is angry, I have found that my approach, my tone of voice, my body language will often be the "key" and it will make the biggest difference in getting them to do what they need to do. When I am dealing with family members who might be upset about something related to their loved one's care, I have found, the "key" is to look at the situation from their perspective, and I will often ask myself, how would I feel if I were in their shoes? If we messed up, I will admit it, and apologize. When I am dealing with staff, the "key" to resolving issues is often my willingness to step back and look at the big picture from their perspective, and again, my approach, my willingness to acknowledge that I may have handled a situation wrong will make the biggest difference. Life is full of situations, and often, I find these situations uncomfortable, but if I am willing to take the time to look at how I can change, often I am able to find a way through even the most difficult situations. It may not always be easy, but I think as long as I take the initiative to find solutions rather than blaming someone else or expecting others to solve the problem for me, I am in a much better position in the long run.
That's a cool key. Love what you wrote... sometimes the situation you are in, essentially caught between the residents and the families is a very difficult place to be, but finding the best and most compassionate way to deal with whatever arises helps so much in the long run. I'm willing to bet you are fabulous at all you do. :)
You have the key but many people don't even have a clue. So many lack the empathy to even consider that the other person might have a valid point of view. Your gentle reminders may make the difference in the lives of some of us on 365 as well as in the lives of those you meet in your daily life. Thank you.
Rick, I commented on your question under my photo. Sometimes I don't get all my notifications, and am not sure if it is happening to everyone, or just me. :)
great picture, rick. i collect old keys--so this i love. and well-said; we are studying a book called 'the peacemaker' in our small group--it goes hand in hand with what you're saying.
Great shot Rick. You know, I would have loved to have a boss like you. You are very wise in your dealings with people. I'm sure you are well loved there.
Nice lighting on this photo and great illustration of your daily interaction with people - "people skills" come from genuine sincerity to treat everyone with respect and fainrness - and it starts with ourselves..
wow, I just learn a lesson now, thank you for this post. It fits perfectly in a situation that I had today at my work. You made me rethink about a lots things now.
You could lecture on the course I have just started - managing people and situations. I would call your photo 'The Key to Emotional Intelligence '. Great thought which prompted a great photo in your life journey.
Beautiful photo Rick. You seem like a very passionate person.
My dad owned a small assested living establishment. He was so very good to them also. They seemed like part of our family. Sometimes all they need is a hug or someone to listen. But not always lol.
Interesting that you chose this topic today. I met with my mindfulness group after work today. In the course of the one hour session, our instructor shared a 3 min video clip of Lt. Col. Chris Hughes using such things as a non-threatening voice, body language, and in general, respect for the Iraqis to defuse a hostile crowd..amazing! Here is an article and video about what he did... http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2006/03/15/eveningnews/main1409061.shtml
Rick, your words and reflection to your outlook on life is so try. If we listen, take responsibility and walk a mile in someone elses shoes we would all be in a better place. I am in a customer service profession too... so spend a lot of time dealing with different people, situations, and personalities. I love the photo.
Beautiful picture and very wise words Rick! I love the subtleness of this image...it's just really lovely and fits perfectly with your soft approach to dealing with people.
My dad owned a small assested living establishment. He was so very good to them also. They seemed like part of our family. Sometimes all they need is a hug or someone to listen. But not always lol.
Great pic.