The following topic “Hard on the Issue Soft on your people” in accordance with the individual, the family, the business environment and in conclusion, from a life’s perspective;

The Individual

Being hard on the issue and soft on your people is easier said than done. Because we live on the cusp of individualism and are so inundated with everyday tasks, we tend to be surface dwellers. Anything that requires dealing with the issue or its root cause is simply not at all appealing. Instead we resort to the opposite, far from an empathetic heart. After all, the actual Issue isn’t a living, breathing, tangible thing but another person on whom we can project our emotions on is.In the long run the lack of willingness to address such issues (effectively) whether personal or publicly manifests in a mountain of prejudice and thus an un-fulfilled life.

The Family

There are so many instances within the family for which we can measure the impacts of being hard on the issue and soft on people. One instance that comes to mind is that of the training and development of children. In order to raise healthy well balanced children, a parent or caretaker should implement consistent discipline techniques along with setting clear unyielding boundaries. The idea is to promote the lack of tolerance for destructive behavior/issues while maintaining a show off empathy. During this process it enforces the no tolerance rule but emphasizes love and support. Thus promoting healthy living, healthy relationships, and healthy adult life. The family nucleus is indeed important and furthermore how we address Issues within the family. It can mean the difference between a functional and dysfunctional family in the next generation.

The Business

For many employees, managers, or business owners “be hard on the Issue and soft on your people” has already made its way into their managerial /staff discussions. We see this change echoed via the cultures nurtured in the corporate arena today. Through long hard transitions, reductions and workforce turnovers many corporations are promoting this concept. By doing so it promotes a team environment, fosters better work relations and motivates employees to not only be productive 90% of their day but develops loyalty to the business at hand.  The trickle down affect proves that Leaders and Managers who focus more on the issues at hand while being soft/empathizing with their staff gain more respect. The overall result is a win-win for all and the bottom line results, in happy client, happy customer.

Life’s Perspective

We live in a world where the importance of people skills transcends every element of daily living. From our own individual perceptions, to familial and corporate experiences, relationships are constantly either being built up or torn down. What we fail to put in proper perspective is the fact that human error plays a huge role in Life.

When proper perspective is applied then there should be emphasis placed both on addressing the issues at hand while too empathizing with the person. When handled with such a cohesive outlook, we promote a healthy balance and relationships are instead strengthened and a sense of mutual respect/bond developed. Then will we see a better developed individuals, a healthier family unit and stronger, longer lasting businesses.

source: janiewilliamsbrown