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You Do Not Have To Pretend To Like Everybody
There’s no reason to pretend you are tight with people you cannot stand.
I mentor someone who recently lamented the aura of fakeness that people feel obligated to show socially and professionally. We talked about this extensively, as we both, unfortunately, had numerous examples of this self-sabotaging behavior.
“I just don’t have the time to devote to faux friendliness,” she concluded. “I am too busy forging connections with authentic people who share my vision and passion.”
Whoa. That statement hit hard. It drilled deep at the marrow of our reflexive facades. For a moment, I felt like the mentee.
The truth is, you do not have to pretend to like everybody. Similarly, you shouldn’t squander energy and resources on impressing others or kowtowing to gain the world`s favor. This especially pertains to neighbors and coworkers.
There’s no reason to pretend you are tight with people you cannot stand.
Being decent to the folks that live nearby is the proper thing to do, but you shouldn’t feel forced into mundane small talk or think you need to be a participant in their lives if you do not feel a genuine synergy with them.
Likewise, being polite at work is expected, but you do not need to make plans for lunch or a happy…