Work issues

[Member222]

Hi all. I don't know how to handle this situation at work. I am fully aware of work politics, but this one lady is driving me nuts at work. She is rude, authoritative, moody and almost everyday causes turmoils.
I was told she has OCD  and Bipolar disorder and I have been super nice to her.
I have done all possible to have a nice working relationship with her, but she is godly  mean and  rude. I just want to work in peace.
HR is aware of this, but can't do much because she is buddy buddy with the boss and knows how to manipulate the boss.
I am about to leave work as her behavior is mentally abusive and I am starting to get anxiety every time I step foot at work.  :(

Any one has any suggestions.

[allmymarbles]

Change jobs. It's not as though this person is an integral part of your life. If you have a nasty landlord, you move. If you have a miserable boss, you quit. You can't change people's spots, and if you don't have to, why bother?

[Member222]

Thank you! Definitely helpful.  

[ROSYouralright]

I would say ignore her ... OR if the direct approach works best for you, maybe, invite her to lunch and try speaking with her. It may very well be that she doesn't realize how her behavior is affecting you...

[careerwaitress]

Good day! We all have that one "special" person that drives us batty at work! What has worked for me is remembering that we all teach those around us how we are to be treated. As a waitress or server, people quickly forget the fact that I am not a "servant" and may begin to treat me as such. But if you already have it in mind that no human is above another, that energy will precede you, and the results may be surprising... No need for rudeness on your own part, but I have found that holding respect for yourself above all others, makes it easier to put your foot down when the need arises. Sometimes being "nice" is misconstrued as weakness, and thus abused by those who fancy themselves well connected or in power. In your attempt to be nice by not confronting her behavior, you have unknowingly given her permission to continue with that sort of communication when it comes to you. I know this may seem too simple, but try walking away as if you didn't hear her everytime she approaches you disrespectfully. Pretend you were thinking of something funny and giggle to yourself or hum a song as you walk away, but do not give her the attention if her approach to you is anything but respectful. Most people w insecurities feed off the "power" others give them when they create tension and the reaction people give when they act this way. You both have equal rights to work in a place without intimidation! But at the same time, if you simply change your perspective of this woman, you can gain control of the environment you have to work in. Find some way of finding pity for her. I know she doesn't deserve it, but imagine if the only way you can be around others is to make them uncomfortable around you so they dont see your real weaknesses. It is superficial power at its best. It only works if people actually bow to the efforts made. So quit bowing!! When she doesn't get what she wants, she will just give up and move on. I've seen it a hundred times. If it actually comes down to a confrontation, simply state facts, devoid of any emotion, and explain she is simply rude and devoid of people skills and you will not tolerate her disrespect of people any longer. The only reason her behavior continues is because she feels that no one will ever stand up to it... Or actually learn to ignore her behavior like a whiny little brat. Hopefully this helps!