I used to work with a person who was known to most to be a backstabbing, conniving, meddler who would stop at nothing to look good and get promoted. If you weren’t “on their side” they would start a campaign against you and could often be seen having whispered conversations in corridors and photocopy rooms. This behind-the- scenes sniping made it very difficult for the targets to respond in any up-front way so it brought out their worst behaviour in return. By the time they left for another job this person had burned many bridges and most people were glad to see the back of them. They had also caused a number of peripheral disputes in the workplace.
I felt like avoiding the after work send-off for this person but forced myself to take the high road and attend. I could tell they were surprised to see me there because we both knew that they had tried to do me a very bad disservice in their own self-interest. Despite that, I sincerely wished them well in the new job. It was like a weight had been lifted from my shoulders by letting go of my grudge. I did regret however that I had allowed myself to be dragged into a couple of the disputes that this person had caused.
What’s my point here?
don’t be the workplace backstabber/self-promoter. Everyone will know what you are all about and any progress you make up the ladder will be tainted by your legacy of misdeeds.
even when the backstabber makes it really difficult, try to take the high road as much as you can. If you have a legitimate grievance bring it out into the open. Talk to management. It’s difficult but try not to retaliate with similar backhanded behaviour. You can’t control their behaviour but you can control yours.
don’t let them consume you with resentment and anger. It’s difficult I know because I was burdened by my grudges for a long time. But, if you find a way to let things go you will feel better in the long run. —Learned my lessons
This article appears in Mar 5-11, 2015.
Fuck the “High Road”. Take the High Ground.
http://www.rawstory.com/rs/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Actor-Bradley-Cooper-shown-as-Chris-Kyle-in-a-movie-trailer-for-American-Sniper-Screenshot1-800×430.jpg
THE HIGH ROAD
“I felt like avoiding the after work send-off for this person but forced myself to take the high road and attend.” Learned my lessons
It is always best to turn the other cheek. Then you can pull your pants up.
A pleasure as always,
Cheerio!
As long as YOU feel better.
Well done OP.
That’s great that you are loving your enemy, the way Jesus taught. My only complaint is that this is in the bitch category, you need to bring that shit to the love the way we love section.
I took the low road, and i’m here in Scotland waiting for ye!
Man,does this ever describe my situation. I want absolutely no outside work contact with most of the people where I work, and some of the things you mentioned would fit my situation. It gives me alot to think about, but I still can not see me showing up at the Send Off event.