We usually can't choose our colleagues, not to mention our superiors. Workplace relationships may therefore be very different from our relationships with family and friends. At the same time, however, you don't have to try to reach close friendly relationships with your colleagues. It is enough to maintain relaxed professional relationships that will ensure successful cooperation.
All you need to do is to understand that peace at work is really important and can be achieved in a few easy steps. That, at least, is the opinion of Deepak Chopra, a world famous physician and writer, who recently published an article on LinkedIn on the topic of on how to behave so as to create a harmonious workplace. The following recommendations should perhaps also be displayed where you work.
Don't stress others
Well-being at work starts with yourself. Avoid any behaviour that increases the stress of others.
Watch how your behaviour affects others
Focus on the negative aspects of your behaviour which should be removed. These may include excessive perfectionism, criticising others in public, enforcing your views at any cost, etc.
Communicate
Do not isolate yourself from others. Silence is always suspicious and leads to tensions. Instead focus on positive communication: support and encourage colleagues, listen to them. Develop your empathy.
Earn trust
Keep to what you promise. Do not favour anybody. When you make a mistake, do not blame others.
Identify others' needs
Workers have two basic needs – safety and job security. Furthermore, they want to be fairly appraised and rewarded and want others to listen to them. In addition, each person has individual needs which may differ greatly. The more you know about them, the better you can work together.
Set an example
Trying to change others is very difficult and usually useless. Rather behave in the way you want others to behave. Give them an example.
If it doesn't work, leave
If you really feel uncomfortable at your workplace and think you are not being treated fairly even if you have tried to change things, change your job.
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