Working from home or operating your own business can be stressful, and sometimes you may find that it is difficult to play nice with others. How do you handle disagreements with co-workers, business partners or clients? Do you work well in groups or do you prefer to work alone? Are you responsible all of the time, most of the time, some of the time?

I find that working with groups or working within teams is challenging, particularly if you are an entrepreneur. There is always someone who wants to be in the center of attention and there maybe a team member who slacks off. Someone may feel shortchanged by the project in some way And there are petty disagreements when you just want to get the project done! It is important to do whatever it takes to get the project completed, make your clients happy, and be cooperative. You don’t have to sacrifice your dignity, though. Be firm, yet keep an open mind. Be as accommodating as you can.

You must also set firm limits as to what you are willing to do. Are you willing to sacrifice time with your family to complete a team project with business partners? Are you willing to take a financial loss to make a customer happy? Will you work odd hours to complete a project or help someone? Will you work for free?

People will let you work much as you are willing to work. They will let you do as much as you are willing to do. It is up to you to set boundaries.

You can’t control what people say and do to you. You can control how you react to others. Always attempt to maintain a smooth working relationship with others, because you never know when you may need assistance. Don’t burn bridges, but I think that it’s OK to singe them every once in a while. Do your best. Don’t give people only what they ask for. Give more (within your set limits).