Dealing with victims

Some people see themselves as powerless at work. Powerless to influence, make change, or get their needs met. Victim mentality.

These are the kinds of people who complain about the people around them, who are never at fault for anything, or who seem to think they are just leaves in the wind.

They’re also the kind of people who frustrate those of us who understand that human beings have agency.

Here’s a strategy you can use with the victims in your life the next time they complain.

• Given that, what are you going to do?

• Given that, what’s your next move?

• Given that, what are your options?

This framing acknowledges reality (“given that”) and reminds them that they have choice in this world.