“Jellyfish” People

“Jellyfish” People – By Arnie Wohlgemut

Jellyfish are interesting creatures. They’re nearly invisible as they float through ocean waters. They don’t look the least bit threatening. But if part of your body touches them, well, let’s just say it’s not very pleasant! I understand it’s a self-protection response against predators. Yet if you hold them in your hand, they don’t sting.

I’ve met a few jellyfish in my life.

“Some cause happiness wherever they go, others, whenever they go.”

Oscar Wilde

“Jellyfish” coworkers are those that float around and appear to be harmless. But if trouble gets too close, watch out! They leave their mark. Hold them “in your hand” and things calm down. All they really want is respect and to be left to do their job.

In management, I found one of my biggest challenge was to figure out how to get the “jellyfish” to participate – to work along with others yet give them the space to float along at their own speed and be successful. This took a lot of time and energy, but the reward was worth it!

“In the end, some of our greatest pains become our greatest strengths.”

Drew Barrymore

We all have “jellyfish” in our lives. Heck, we may have been a “jellyfish” ourselves. I found the minute I started to encourage, mentor, and empower my “jellyfish”; we were rewarded with the pleasure of success.