It is a simple concept, but a tough subject to broach with someone. I mean, how do you ask someone who you obviously believe to be extremely sensitive if maybe…perhaps…they should lighten up a little? Well, there is a reason for their sensitivity and, as with most of our articles, Yes, there IS something you can do about it.
The number one (and some would say the only) reason why someone is sensitive is that they feel like they are responsible for the behavior of others, and that those other people are not behaving like they should. It is really a bad position to be in, if you feel that way, and it is worth knowing how to get around it if you or someone you know is feeling ultra sensitive about something or for a noticeable period of time.
If it is someone else who is sensitive, the thing to do is to help them feel in better control of their environment, and that includes all of the people in their environment, which means you. Ask them if they think you are doing something the proper way, listen carefully and respond in a calm, rational, unemotional way when they give you their opinion, put out energy which shows your support of them, and help them to feel better in control of their environment. It matters not whether they are actually in a position of control within your company. It only matters that they temporarily feel like all the details are taken care of and in their place, so that they can deal with their own problems. At that point, you can begin separating your space and time from them, and let them deal with their own problems.
If you are the culprit, then get over it! No, actually, we mean that you should recognize that it is because you feel this responsibility for others, whether or not they are obeying the rules, and that recognizing this in yourself is part of the solution in getting rid of those nagging feelings.
In the meantime, follow guidelines, implement employee drug and alcohol testing, and be as aware and as observant as you can be. Call Mediscreen for more information concerning drug and alcohol screening: (+61) 1300 79 70 40.
