I've been described as having the patience of a saint, but that's only because I'm good at keeping my cool. I've learned it from my dad growing up. We butted heads ALL THE TIME, and when I would become angry and shout or get verbally out of line, it spelled trouble for me. But when I approached the subject calmly, I got a much more favorable response from him, and from everyone else that I tried it with. From my experience, it never works out if you end up angry or short-tempered, because people tend to respond in kind. When you project a calm, quiet (but firm) and authoritative demeanor, people tend to eventually calm down as well, and actually start listening to you. I put this to the test every day working retail, since most people treat retail workers like we're all idiots who barely graduated high school. Plus being cheerful always helps! Many a time I've left people scratching their heads when they get short with me about something, and I respond with a "well sir/ma'am, let me see what I can do just for YOU today!" They can never tell if I'm being helpfully stupid or if I'm being sarcastic. :rofl:
That being said, you still have to know how to stand up for yourself and be firm with people sometimes. Some people just keep pushing your buttons. Sarcasm, my friend, will become your best no-contact weapon, provided you use it correctly.
12-01-2012, 02:05 AM
JeRMz
Re: What is your temper like?
Shorter than a firecracker fuse around the right (wrong) people. I've no time for arrogant d-bags. :colbert: My temper has gotten me in some hot water, in the past. Jail is not very fun.
