How to Deal with Difficult People

I've found in my 22 years, that even if you're the nicest person in the world, you won't get along with everyone. Conflicts arise and people are stubborn. Sometimes arguments happen where both people think they're right and the other person is wrong and no one ever wins. I've had to deal with people who won't see my point of view and just ignore me when the friendship gets tough.

So how do you deal with these difficult people?

1. When I find myself getting in an argument with someone, I try to slow down and see things from their point of view. Even if I don't agree with the point of view, I can usually somewhat understand where they are coming from.

2. Be nice. When someone is rude to you, simply be nice back to them. This is definitely easier said than done. When a friend or even a stranger spouts a rude comment back at you, your first reaction is to react and be rude right back. Next time you find yourself in this situation, try something like: "I'm sorry you feel that way" or "What can I do to help?". Basically try to say something that won't make a bad situation worse.

3. Know when to give up. Sometimes you can be as nice as you can be, try to understand their point of view, offer solutions or explanations and the person is just going to be plain mean or stubborn. At this point, it may be time to walk away from the person. Sometimes it happens at work and you can't stop talking to the person forever, but you can excuse yourself to take a breather and get away from a bad situation at the time.

How do you deal with difficult people at work or just simply in life?