Tolerance has a Limit in the Workplace

Tolerance is a virtue that can provide momentum to our growth.  But too much of it is disruptive to the work place.

No two people can agree always or on everything there will be difference of opinion.  Success is celebration of these differences.

Individuals have to learn to tolerate and tackle differences to grow and also support peers, teams and organization in their pursuits.

Too much of good thing becomes a bad thing.  Too much tolerance means allowing bad things.

Drawing the line between the tolerance and intolerance is subjective but is essential.

We should not criticize others for being different but at the same time, we need not change our opinion or transform ourselves.

If a colleague prefer to work late hour, we need to follow him.  If his action /decision can affect others it should not be left unheeded/ignored.

Steps to deal with such Individuals

Explain him the issue and possible repercussions.

Explore options if he refuses to mend his ways.

When all options fail, take up with your superiors.

If higher authorities do not take it seriously, restrain from

further taking up with them.

Deal with the issue at personal level.

 

Find Practical Ways to Help Colleagues in Hard Times

There are five stages of grief:-

            (a)       Disbelief         -           This can’t be happening to me.

            (b)       Longing          -           Desire to be with the deceased.

            (c)        Anger              -           Why me?

            (d)       Depression    -           Overwhelming feeling of helpless.

            (e)       Acceptance   -           Accepting the loss.  

These stages of grief last for six months approx.  After this time growing is less.

Request your Boss to give you colleague’s share of work to help him.

Have patience and understanding for him.

Be with him, let him know you are there to listen and talk to.

Encourage him to take a walk or join some activity with you and spend some 

time together.

Acknowledge his grief, let him know you recognize the magnitude of the loss.

Send a sympathy card, note or flowers as a way to extend your condolence.

It is not necessary to ask questions how the death happened.

Avoid platitudes like, “life is for living”, “It’s God’s will”. They rarely console 

mourners.

Inappropriate to say, “I know how it feels”. Keep your personal feelings aside.  

Try to keep why and should out of your conversation.  Don’t allow your 

facial expression, body language or gestures to give away your judgmental 

thoughts.

Become comfortable with silence.  No need to fill up every moment 

with conversation.

Listen to your colleague frequently.  Do not discourage him to talk 

about the deceased.  Accept the feelings expressed.

It is inappropriate to say you should not feel like that, Do not hesitate to 

encourage him to go for counseling if the need arises watch out for signs 

like weight loss, depression or talks of extreme actions.

Be open to your colleague’s need and make frequent contacts when required.

Suggestions to Grow in Ones Profession

Giving for more and better is the basis for growth and development. Lack of desire is seen as abnormality.

Desire and effort for growth is obligatory at work.

Encourage and support capable employees to aim higher, develop skills and grow.  

Carefully plan strategy and execute diligently

Will Power

Determination to learn and progress against any odd

Thorough research on the field

Colleagues and superior are good source of information

Self Assessment

Honest self assessment prevents the individuals from taking wrong decisions.

Necessary to get the right picture where we stand

Don’t give up if not up to the mark but work further

Credentials

Certifications are important for success.  They are proof of one’s creditability.

Each stage earns a degree that qualifies one for the next level. 

Sometimes experience gives the insight what knowledge and skill cannot.

Flexibility

Help in adapting to the current situations

Guidelines of seniors are invaluable in deciding further course of action

Discussing ones plan with peers is also a good idea.  Final decision must be taken after careful evaluation of all the advice received.

With determination and hard work, anyone can grow to a level one desires.