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My Tantrum Is Over!
When You Throw Dirt, You Lose
Ground -
So Avoid Arguments
by
Joel Weldon
Film director Mel
Brooks has always
been known
for being temperamental. Many years
ago, while working on the set of The Producers, he confirmed that reputation by
yelling at actor Zero Mostel.
The shouting grew louder and Mostel raised his hand and calmly stated, "I am now
going to my dressing room. When your tantrum is over and you have finished shouting,
you may knock on my door and we will resume the scene."
"You are going to your dressing room?" Brooks screamed in disbelief.
"You
mean that while expensive shooting time drains away you plan on staying in your
dressing room until my tantrum is over and I have knocked on your door?"
"Yes," Mostel replied. "That is precisely what I mean."
At that, Brooks quietly surrendered, saying meekly,
"My tantrum is over."
Although temperamental, Brooks had the presence of mind to see that arguing was
a waste of time and money. It always is, whether it occurs on a movie set or in
a business office. You can't row a boat in two directions at the same time. The
people in a business organization have to pull together. That's why differences
of opinion, when they do arise, ought to be settled promptly.
And remember to tune in to station W.I.I.F.M. -"What's In It For Me?" Find
out exactly what others' needs and desires are - what's important to them. Then
you can offer your ideas as a solution to their needs. Instead of tantrums,
tune in to others, and you'll turn them on!
Here's what you can do:
1. Remember there is no advantage in arguing, "Whenever you throw dirt, you
lose ground!" So if possible, walk away.
2. Let yourself and your would-be adversary cool down and think logically about
each other's point of view. When you come back, you'll be less likely to argue.
3. Every dispute has a reason-if you keep a cool head you can uncover the underlying
causes and the problem will be less apt to recur.
4. If you're a manager, don't let disputes get away from you-give them your full
attention immediately. They won't just blow over-they need to be dealt with! On
the other hand, curb the initial impulse to jump in and threaten people.
5. Keep a cool head, listen patiently and don't take sides. Avoid inflaming an already
hot situation by losing your temper.
One of the most highly respected and sought-after keynote
speakers and sales trainers in North America, as well as an Idea Consultant and
Executive Speech Coach for some of the world's leading businesses. Joel is the only
speaker to have earned all four of the highest honors in the speaking profession,
the Golden Gavel, "for his profound impact on corporate America," the coveted Communication
& Leadership Award, induction into the Speakers Hall of Fame, and in 2006 he
was named Legend of the Speaking Profession.
Joel H. Weldon & Associates, Inc.
P.O.
Box 6226
Scottsdale,
AZ 85261
toll
free 1-(800) 852-8572
local
(480) 948-5633
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