Lessons Learned From Bridges Burned

It’d be nice to say that my relationships (whether personal or professional) have come and gone with a mutual understanding and on a positive note. Unfortunately, I’m much more human than that. There are countless times where emotions, pride, or plain-ol’ stupidity have gotten the best of me and ended up making a bigger mess of an already less-than-ideal situation.

Everyone says that life has ups and downs. I’ll see that metaphor and raise it to twists and turns, sideway detours, underground tunnels, drunken stumbles, and sudden drops. Somewhere along this nauseating route, we’re bound to mismanage a thing or two. Being the opportunistic gal that I am, I’ll take advantage of hindsight and outline the take aways of my experiences.

1. THINK THINGS THROUGH

Once you’re caught in the middle of a situation where things can only go bad or worse, don’t just give up. Although most of us have thrown in the towel because the stress of it all has us begging for it come to an end, the internal arguments you’ll have with yourself will linger much longer than working things out with the best intentions in mind.

2. BE HONEST

It’s hard to admit to a moment of weakness. Telling someone you’re not particularly close with (even so!) that you’re feeling stressed, depressed, or overwhelmed might seem like too much for your hard-workind independent ego. But really, we all appreciate honesty much more than a nasty end to things where no one wins.

3. HAVE A SOLUTION

Shift the focus from the damage done to what can help move everyone forward. Be ready to explain yourself but also come prepared with a plan A, B, and C to mend the broken ties as much as possible.

4. KNOW WHAT WORKS

A lot of times we’re left wondering, “How did I get here?” Try to recognize if you’re heading in a direction you’d rather stay out of. If you’re caught in the middle of a situation, project, or environment that isn’t bringing you happiness you’ll quickly lose the motivation it takes to stay on top of things the right way.

5. IT’S GOING TO HAPPEN TO YOU

You’ll sooner or later experience someone suddenly giving up in the middle of chaos. Be prepared, be understanding, and be smart. Keep in mind that things don’t always go as planned. Understand that everyone has different things going on in their lives that might distract or influence the current issue at hand. Be smart enough to know who’s made a non-recurring mistake and who simply can’t be trusted.