Healthcare – Have an Obstinate Stain?

First let’s review a definition of obstinate – stubbornly refusing to change one’s opinion or action, despite attempts to persuade one to do so. Then we have to ask why, why, why? What has you so stuck? How is that working for you? Being obstinate can be used to your advantage, or a distinct disadvantage. Here are some possibilities you want to be aware of.

• Are you absolutely certain that yours is the only absolute correct answer?
• Are you tired of not ‘being right’ – and doggone it – it’s your turn to be right?
• Did you feel wronged and this is your way of making you right? Even if it hurts you the most?
• Is it due to embarrassment of knowing yours wasn’t the best solution, but if you hold on long enough you might prove it any how?
• You need a ‘win’ for your self esteem, or to impress your boss or coworkers?
• You are incapable of compromise on this subject?
• You want to save the day, you know you have the right answer?

For the sake of team work and improving your reputation would you consider these alternative options?

• Perhaps there is more than one correct solution.
• People may have different solutions based on their prior experiences – they may have a perspective that you had not considered.
• You improve your reputation by being open to other possibilities and encouraging the creative flow of ideas.
• Be willing to try someone else’s suggestion first, and if it doesn’t work – you still have the option of revisiting yours.
• There is no winning or impressing if you push your idea through and it isn’t the best solution.
• By joining the team and not being obstinate, you are more powerful and effective as a whole unit working together. Find the happy synergy of give and take.
• The world of non-compomise can be a lonely place. You may find yourself being edged out.
• If you are obstinate due to a previous insult or injury – you are only harming yourself by remaining stuck in the past. Most won’t even remember it – especially the perpetrator. So you are only hurting yourself by not letting go of the painful past and not proceeding with your potentially fantastic life. Perhaps the event wasn’t even about you and you misinterpreted it? And you are letting it hold you back? Both are your choices, choose to let it go.

One key to a great team is synergy and flow. Even if you are certain you are correct, it won’t matter if the team considers you obstinate to a flaw. There is an art to presenting your ideas and finding ways to move forward. It’s like having a fabulous white shirt that you can not get that damn spot out of.  When you can’t get rid of the spot, you have soiled the shirt. When you can remove the spot (or obstinance) it is a time to celebrate and shine. Recognize obstinance and make certain you know when it’s appropriate.

Explore posts in the same categories: Healthcare Service, Self Improvement

Tags: communication, Conflict resolution, healthcare profession, Human Resources, leadership, personal growth

You can comment below, or link to this permanent URL from your own site.