In a presentation I gave at DisruptHR, I shared a vivid dream that beautifully captured my vision for transforming workplace culture.
In this dream, I found myself on a bus but with a mission and purpose. The aim was nothing less of changing the world from sadness to happiness. What’s more, this wasn't just any bus ride; it was a journey through time, picking up iconic figures from both literature and popular culture, each representing different facets of personality and challenges within workplace dynamics.
As we ventured from one stop to another, we were joined by characters like Scrooge and the Grinch. These are characters known for their initially poor behavior, who ultimately saw significant personal transformation. They symbolize the potential for change within every individual, even those who might initially seem difficult or challenging. These lessons emphasize the importance of compassion and understanding in dealing with difficult personalities in the workplace.
Our bus also welcomed aboard figures like Penelope, who stressed the importance of foundational great communication, and Cheryl, who highlighted practical tools like games and books that facilitate better workplace relationships.
Each character brought a unique lesson about handling difficult personalities. From setting clear expectations to fostering an environment of listening and understanding, the insights gathered during this imaginary bus ride reinforced my belief in proactive and positive HR practices. It underscored the power of leading with love and the impact of a supportive and inclusive culture on transforming workplace dynamics.
In both my dream and in my real-life practice, the goal remains the same: to cultivate a workplace where everyone can thrive, even those who initially might seem like the 'jerks' of the story. It's about understanding that sometimes, what appears as difficult behavior might just be a call for help, a misunderstanding, or a chance for growth.
By the end of this journey, as I awoke in my dream, I was reminded that if everyone on the bus seems to be improving, perhaps it's also a chance for self-reflection on how we can personally contribute to or detract from a positive culture.
(If you’d like to hear the full talk - it’s only 5 minutes long! - you can
find it here.)