Rudeness Rehab: Transforming Workplaces with Dr. John O'Brien

Written By Jana Short
“Sometimes when we think we’ve hit a dead end or that something isn’t working, an even better opportunity comes along.”
— Dr. John O’Brien

Dr. John O'Brien is a licensed psychologist, professional speaker, and executive coach based in Portland, Maine. With a career spanning over 30 years in the mental health field, he specializes in creating lower-stress work environments that promote employee engagement and productivity. Dr. O'Brien has served as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Maine in Augusta, and he is the author of the book "Rudeness Rehab: Reclaiming Civility in the Workplace and Your Home Space." His expertise uniquely positions him to address challenges in mental health and workplace dynamics, offering insights that blend psychological understanding with practical business applications.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of "Oh, My Health...There Is Hope!" hosted by Jana Short, we welcome the insightful Dr. John O'Brien to discuss his recent book, "Rudeness Rehab: Reclaiming Civility in the Workplace and Your Home Space." Dr. O'Brien delves into the pervasive issue of rudeness and incivility, which has been exacerbated by the isolating impact of COVID-19, divisive politics, and the impersonal nature of social media. He shares a personal anecdote of overcoming a discouraging professional setback, highlighting how resilience and support networks can lead to unexpected opportunities.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. O'Brien emphasizes the critical importance of compassion and active listening in both professional and personal contexts. The episode examines how leaders can demonstrate appropriate behavior within their organizations to foster a culture of respect and civility. With insights drawn from psychology and his professional experiences, Dr. O'Brien offers actionable advice for individuals seeking to navigate rudeness and foster a more collaborative and supportive environment. The dialogue further emphasizes the power of introspection and communication in transforming relationships at work and home.

Key Takeaways:

  • The pervasive issue of rudeness at work and home can be mitigated by fostering a culture of respect and empathy.

  • The isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated incivility, but tools such as active listening and mindfulness can help mitigate it.

  • Leaders must model civility and effectively address rudeness in real time to cultivate a positive workplace environment.

  • Effective communication requires recognizing when to respond and when to let go, especially in digital interactions.

  • Personal anecdotes demonstrate resilience in the face of negativity and the importance of seeking better opportunities.

Resources:

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https://www.janashort.com/

Show Music ‘Hold On’ by Amy Gerhartz: https://www.amygerhartz.com/music.

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Jana Short
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