[May 27, 2023] I originally wrote this blog post with the title “Disrespect to Leaders” but realized that I was leaving out a big part of the picture by not including “anger.” What brought me to this conclusion was an article entitled “America’s Anger Epidemic: Why?” by Dan Bowens. It’s really about workplace dysfunction.
To buy into the belief that there has been a trend of increasing disrespect and anger in the workplace, one doesn’t have to look far. Indeed, this is largely circumstantial, but studies show that Americans are more angry than ever. To counter this trend, leaders should establish a positive workplace culture.
Bowens explains the anger in Americans as a product of uncertainty in the job market. I certainly can’t entirely agree with his reasoning, but here is a list of common reasons cited for workplace disrespect and anger.
- Declining morality and values
- Decreased attention to religion and spiritual matters
- Increased prosperity and the decline of “want,” instant gratification
- Infection of political correctness
- Increasingly litigious society
Bowen also mentions “celebrity meltdowns.” Presumably, people emulate them. He has a point, but people also observe our political leaders and see the rancor in the current debate over the government’s overspending and recent problems with controlling inflation, illegal immigration, increasing crime rates, etc.
Sadly, the dysfunction of disrespect and anger is too often seen directed against leaders, but it is certainly not restricted to this venue. It can be observed against customers and other employees. In most big cities like New York, Chicago, and San Francisco (my observations), it is easy to observe the dysfunction in most department stores, public-government agencies, etc.
Leaders should not allow the infection of disrespect and anger – although much easier said than done. But this is what leaders must do. Only through leaders having the motivation and moral courage to make a change and create that positive culture can progress be made.
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Note: For an excellent article with the same name, see Deirdre Sullivan’s comments here: http://www.npr.org/2005/08/08/4785079/always-go-to-the-funeral
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I find that so many of the Gen Zers and other young folks are just too entitled to ever admit their emotions actually have negative consequences. I’ve seen it over and over and yet these snowflakes keep at it.
Hi everyone, please enjoy this long weekend but also remember why we have it. Honor and Remember.
Right…. our military rocks!!!!!!
Got that right Kenny!!!!!!
🙏😌
But dysfunction–in any form and any degree–comes at a cost, keeping us from effective outcomes, efficient results and successful conclusions. At its worst, it can bring down an entire organization. The first step is recognizing the problem.
Is Your Workplace Dysfunctional? Here Are The 5 Types Of Toxic Cultures
https://www.forbes.com/sites/heidilynnekurter/2021/11/30/is-your-workplace-dysfunctional-here-are-the-5-types-of-toxic-cultures/?sh=1adb57672af4
Toxic workplace cultures are rife with hostility, cliques, gossip, mistrust, and selfishness. They’re a breeding ground for dysfunction due to poor communication, power struggles, negativity, and abusive leadership. Go figure.
I just love bopping folks up side the head to straighten out. They don’t like it. Maybe I go to prison for it but at least they straight themselves out.
Relax Dave V, it is all okay.
Chill Dave … enjoy the Memorial Day weekend and go to some ceremonies, then have a beer … as long as it’s not Bud Light or AB transbeer.
Nailed it.
Great comments, Gen. Satterfield. Love your personal blog. thank you. Long time fan!!!!!!
I recommend getting a copy of Gen. Satterfield ‘s books — get both and give them away. Be sure to leave a 5-star review of “Our Longest Year in Iraq” at Amazon. That is how we can support Gen. Satterfield.