In the first section we discussed how you get stuck in your box.  Now, let's take a look at some common boxes to watch out for.  If you see signs of these boxes, relax.  Remember, we are all just people.

Better-Than Box.  You view yourself as superior, important or right.  You think others are inferior, incapable or wrong.  The world is troubled and competitive.  You feel impatient, disdainful or indifferent.

Must -Be-Seen-As Box.  You need to be thought well of but are fake.  You think others are judgmental, threatening or are your audience.  The world is dangerous, watching you and judging you.  You feel anxious, needy, stressed or overwhelmed.

I-Deserve Box.  You view yourself as meritorious, victim or unappreciated.  You think others are mistaken, mistreating or ungrateful.  The world is unfair, unjust and owes you.  You feel entitled, deprived or resentful.

Worse-Than Box.  You view yourself as broken or deficient, fated.  You think others are advantaged, privileged or blessed.  The world is difficult, against your or ignoring you.  You feel helpless, jealous, bitter, depressed.

Does this mean that you can never acknowledge someone might be incapable?  Of course not!  Some people are incapable in selected areas.  BUT, you should be able to recognize their strengths, because it is highly unlikely they are incapable at everything they do.  Does it mean that you can never be important?  Not at all! 

All this means is that the next time you are trying to get an offer pulled together with another agent, or you're fighting with your spouse or frustrated with your children, take a step back.  When you start to feel defensive, deserving or that the world is a horrible place, take a minute to gather your thoughts and take a fresh look from outside of your box.

We are all just people, so let's treat each other as such. 

Jen Hudson, GRI (360) 652-1200 or jen@jenhudsonhomes.com