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Let’s be real. There’s always that person.
The one who…
Talks over everyone in meetings
Undermines your work with subtle jabs
Gossips, takes credit, blames others, or micromanages
Simply...NOT NICE!
(Are you looking at them right now...in the office or on zoom?)
They make work harder than it has to be. But here's the truth: how you respond is what shapes your power—not their behavior.
Let’s walk through how to deal with difficult people through the lens of EQ Impact®.
Why This Works: The EQ Impact® Advantage
Difficult people don’t disappear. But when you use the EQ Impact® method, you control the outcome—not them.
Here’s what changes when you apply EQ Impact®:
You stop being reactive and start being strategic No more emotional outbursts or silent resentment. You lead with clarity.
You preserve your reputation and influence While they’re busy stirring the pot, you’re building trust and credibility.
You create boundaries without burning bridges Emotional intelligence lets you say what needs to be said—without drama.
You stay focused on what matters Their behavior becomes background noise. Your goals stay front and center.
You model maturity for your team You teach others how to handle tension by how you navigate it.
This isn’t just about being the “bigger person.” It’s about protecting your energy, leading with intention, and getting results—no matter who’s on your team.
Because the strongest leaders don’t avoid conflict. They manage it with emotional brilliance.
1. PAUSE Before You Pounce
When emotions rise, impulsive reactions follow. Don’t let them hijack your peace.
Take 3 intentional breaths
Notice what you’re feeling
Choose silence over snapping
Ask yourself: What outcome am I aiming for?
2. PROCESS Instead of Personalize
That snarky email wasn’t about you—it was about their lack of self-regulation. Label the emotion: Frustration? Embarrassment? Resentment?
Identify your emotional triggers
Separate facts from feelings
Respond from clarity, not chaos
Ask yourself: What part of this is my emotional story—and what part isn’t?
3. PERSEVERE with Emotional Brilliance
You can be both assertive and composed. Don’t match their energy. Lead with yours.
Set clear boundaries
Speak truth without venom
Stay grounded in who you are
Power move: Let people be wrong about you—and keep your focus anyway.
What’s at Stake if You Don’t?
Distrust will spread
Productivity will drop
You will carry the emotional weight
You will lose your (emotional) power
But when you lead with emotional intelligence impact (EQ IMPACT®), you keep your peace, your power, and your influence.
Your EQ Impact® Challenge:
This week, when that person tests your limits…
PAUSE.
PROCESS.
PERSEVERE.
...to keep your peace AND your power.
And ask yourself: Am I showing up with emotional brilliance, or just surviving the day?
Want to make a bigger impact?
No more theory...just simple, real-time actionable steps to transform your leadership. What is in place or being taught by your OrgDev, Learning and Development team may just need a boost. Let's do this!
Personal note for you: You don’t have to match dysfunction to manage it. You just have to master you.
Nicole F. Smith EQ Impact® Creator | The Leadership Disruptor | Emotional Intelligence Expert
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Some tools for you!
📌Take this FREE Leadership Style Assessment to begin!
Whether you're looking to strengthen emotional intelligence, improve communication, or navigate leadership challenges with confidence, I’m here to help.
📌 Ways We Can Work Together:
✅ 1:1 Leadership Coaching Or Group Coaching!
✅ EQ Impact ® Workshops & Training
✅ Keynote Speaking & Executive VIP Accelerator Sessions
✅ DiSC Assessments & Team Development
✅ Strategic Organizational and Talent Development
Let’s create a strategy that works for YOU and YOUR team!
📌Click below to start the conversation.
