I wrote last week that I’ve compiled a list of five character traits that you might want to stay well clear of in life, in business, and in relationships.
Over the course of the next few weeks I’m setting out to unpack each of these five traits, providing a deeper look at what each of those traits is and explaining how you can identify those traits in other people as well as watching out for those traits appearing in your own personality.
I’m also going to look at what to do if you feel that your life partner, or your employees, or even your business partner starts displaying any of these characteristics.
I hope that I’ll be able to share some memorable strategies with you for avoiding the pitfalls that might occur when people with these traits get their hooks into you…
Entitlement. The Second Of Five Character Traits You Want To Steer Well Clear Of…
Entitlement.
It’s a feeling that can sneak up on anyone.
Entitlement is defined as the belief that you’re owed something just because you exist. It’s the belief that you deserve to be given special privileges or the right to have or do something.
Sadly, this belief can severely impact relationships and destroy business environments.
In this article we’re going to break down what entitlement looks like, how to recognise it, and what to do about it when it shows up in your world.
We’ll also explore the nature of entitlement and look into effective strategies for managing it.
Identifying Entitlement
Entitlement is a trait of expecting special treatment without earning it. It is often characterised by an unjustified expectation of special treatment or rewards without putting in the necessary effort.
In business, it’s the employee who thinks they deserve a raise or a promotion just for showing up.
In personal relationships, it’s the friend or partner who expects constant attention or who always expects you to go that extra mile without ever reciprocating.
Recognizing Entitlement in Others
Look out for those people who always feel deserving of more, but who never put in the work. Look for patterns of behaviour where these entitled people consistently expect more than what is fair or earned. They might show little gratitude and they most probably have an inflated sense of what they’re owed.
In the workplace, entitled individuals might display a lack of gratitude and a sense of superiority. It’s the person who complains about not getting promoted despite only ever putting in mediocre performances.
At home, it’s the person who takes but rarely gives, taking advantage of others’ generosity, yet consistently showing very little appreciation.
Self-Reflection: Are You Exhibiting Entitlement?
Take a good look at yourself.
Examine your own behaviours and attitudes.
Do you feel upset when you don’t get what you think you deserve, even if you haven’t earned it?
Do you frequently feel deserving of special treatment?
Are you upset when you don’t receive the recognition or rewards you believe you deserve?
It’s a tough pill to swallow, but recognising these tendencies can help you adjust your expectations and behaviours.
Addressing Entitlement
When addressing entitlement in others, be clear and direct.
In business, tie rewards to performance.
When dealing with entitlement in a business partner, employee, or life partner, it’s important to set clear boundaries and expectations.
In professional settings, provide feedback and establish performance-based rewards.
In personal relationships, set boundaries and communicate your expectations. Communicate your concerns and work towards a more balanced outcome.
Strategies for Overcoming Entitlement
- Practice Gratitude: Focus on what you have, not what you lack. Regularly acknowledging what you have can help combat feelings of entitlement.
- Earn Your Rewards: Focus on putting in the effort and earning the rewards you seek.
- Empathize with Others: Understand and appreciate others’ perspectives and contributions.
- Set Realistic Expectations: Align your expectations with the reality of your efforts and contributions.
- Stay Humble: Recognize that everyone is deserving of respect and fair treatment.
Conclusion
Entitlement can erode trust and harmony and productivity in both personal and professional settings. By addressing and managing this trait of entitlement, you can foster healthier relationships and more effective business practices, creating a much more balanced and respectful environments.
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