Thread: To treat the way one acts?

We all go through cycles and need different responses at different times. Someone who has suffered a loss or trauma may respond differently for a while and needs different treatment. I try to treat people as I would like to be treated. But it really is true for most people, that they will give you what you expect.

When I was in management it happened more than once that employees who drove the other managers nuts gave me no trouble at all. Part of it was communication - I would sit down with them and get a feel for what made them tick and use it positively. But mostly I just expected them to do more than just show up, I didn't demand and lay down laws, I just showed in every action and word what I expected and treated them with respect.

Makes me think of some women I know who say all men are rude jerks. I'm astonished, everywhere I go men hold doors for me and offer to help me out with things and I'm not a ditzy, fluffy woman who looks helpless. But I always smile, say thank you and appreciate what they are willing to do. Does it work universally? No, but often enough that I can say I think men are great. It hasn't translated into my having great relationships but that's a different issue. Or is it? Time to put on the thinking cap.....