How to Work with People Who Don't Practice Self Awareness

Success requires having a strong sense of self. Nearly 100% of individuals think they are self-aware. The not-so-shocking fact is that less than 25% of people truly deserve the "self-aware" label. This means there is a good chance you're working with people who lack self-awareness.

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How can you interact with these people more productively? Can you improve their self-awareness, or should you put more effort into enhancing your own mental fortitude? It's not ideal to hurt a relationship, especially if the other person isn't going to change. 

When a person lack self-awareness, not only do they struggle, but those around them struggle as well. Here's how to deal with issues brought on by folks who are genuinely ignorant of their ignorance.

No Self-Awareness or Negative Behavior?

Are you certain you're dealing with non-self-aware individuals? Is it conceivable that some of your coworkers are just acting inappropriately?  

Take the time to consider what's causing the tension before presuming someone isn't self-aware, so you can deal with the underlying issue. Asking them to talk more quietly on the phone or requesting to be relocated to a different part of the workplace might be a quick fix. You must discuss the matter with your supervisors or HR for more serious behaviors, such as harassing or bullying others.

Ask your coworkers how they feel about this particular person to get a sense of the situation, and see if you are working with someone who lacks self-awareness. It's crucial to approach the question with curiosity, looking for knowledge about experiences rather than rumors. Generally speaking, if there is agreement among others on a person's behavior, you are not the only one who has an issue or worry about them.

How to Handle an Unaware Colleague 

What actions can you take to survive working together regularly if you've discovered that the person you're working with isn't self-aware? 

Do you think they can be helped? It's crucial to understand that while you may point out people's mistakes, the choice to change ultimately rests with that personn alone. However, this doesn't mean you can't influence them and perhaps increase their level of self-consciousness.

Give thoughtful, truthful input. You may still make someone aware of their shortcomings regardless of whether they wish to change.

Of course, do not mock or disparage those who lack self-awareness. Instead, talk with them privately and share  how their actions are impacting others. In this way, you may set an example for others to follow by acting properly and having a difficult yet necessary conversation.

Make Your Mental Strength a Priority 

Develop your emotional sensitivity first. Keep an eye on your feelings, and then think about how you manage the reactions that arise from another person's behavior. By checking in with yourself first, you'll be able to better see, understand, and respond to others' feelings and the complicated situations that may result.

Although it is difficult, stepping outside of your comfort bubble will help you become a better person. Acquire new knowledge. Try new things, read, educate yourself, listen, and learn from your mistakes. Eventually, you may realize that minor inconveniences that used to worry you, such as another person's lack of self-awareness, are easier to comprehend and work through than you originally thought.