CHAPTER 5Doesn’t Mean to Be Mean

There’s a certain kind of woman who really doesn’t mean to be mean, but whose actions often seem offensive and hurtful to others. These women may be very friendly. They are often kind in spirit, and they appear to be well intentioned. And yet, they are extremely self-absorbed. They literally aren’t aware of how their unconscious, inconsiderate behavior affects others.

Have you ever experienced any of the following?

• When your coworker arrives late for a meeting, she’s surprised that you’re mad because she has kept you waiting (again).

• When her messy desk has made it impossible for you to find an important document, she can’t understand why you’re so upset.

• Even though her depressed mood immobilizes her, putting ...

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