I was once told that the things that irritate us about other people often reflect something unresolved within ourselves. At first, I resisted that idea. Surely the problem belonged to them, not me. But over time, life kept placing mirrors in front of me. Eventually, I began to recognize my reflection staring back.
Understanding did not come through theory or philosophy. It came through uncomfortable moments.
Years ago, I worked with a board member who criticized nearly every plan or idea I presented. No matter how much effort I put into a project, she could always find the flaw, the risk, or the reason it might fail. I left many meetings frustrated and defensive. Yet as time passed, I slowly realized why her behavior affected me so deeply. In her constant criticism, I could see my own desire…