For every difficult encounter, there is a lesson to be learned. As part of your personal development, make a conscious effort to analyze, learn, and move on from these costly experiences.
Confront the challenge.
All too often, we find ourselves engaged in uncomfortable or challenging interactions with people who cross our paths. Such interactions might include dealing with a difficult customer or colleague at work, arguing with a spouse, child, or other family member at home, or confronting a stranger off the streets. These interactions can leave us feeling negative emotions that range from mild annoyance to resentment to desolation. In most cases, we are inclined to set them aside and go on with our day. However, for those key interactions that tend to gnaw at us, take a step back to gain insights on the pros and cons of the situation. Turn it into a positive learning.
Convert the negative into positive.
To convert a negative encounter into a positive learning experience, ask yourself the following questions.
Start with the positive…What did you do well?
Continue with…What could you have done better?
End with…What were your “take aways” or key learning opportunities?
Focus on you.

Since this is your self-evaluation, the focus is on you. Don’t get sidetracked with your emotions or desire to assign blame. To maximize your efforts, ask yourself the questions before too much time has lapsed.
Learn and grow.

While the interaction is over and done, the past has a way of repeating itself if you don’t take the necessary time to learn from it. Your GAIN in any difficult encounter is to grow from the experience. Take advantage of this opportunity!
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**Article originally published on the website of Smart Strategies for Successful Living at: CLICK HERE.
Written by: Patricia K. Flanigan, Smart Strategies for Successful Living
Patricia K. Flanigan is a vibrant and passionate advocate for quality living and aging. She has dedicated over 28 years to working in higher education, but now enjoys a more peaceful lifestyle as the founding director and writer of Smart Strategies for Successful Living. In her free-time, she cherishes spending quality time with her family and friends, as well as getting out into nature with her beloved Samoyed dog, Wylie. Patricia loves helping others age gracefully and shares her wisdom through her content to promote the ultimate success in living.
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