Author and psychotherapist Dennis Portnoy, MFT, says the excess pursuit of harmony is not altruistic. If you’re a person who goes to great lengths to avoid discord, he shares what you need to know about “harmony addiction.”
Source: BottomLineInc, September 1, 2019. Link. People who chronically set aside their own interests tend to tell themselves that they are making personal sacrifices for the sake of loved ones, friends, coworkers…or total strangers. They may not realize the sacrifices they’re making to put other people first may have become second nature. Harmony addicts often strive to dodge discord even when doing so works against everyone’s interests.
INSIGHTS: Whether in personal relationships or in our roles to improve customer experiences, Portnoy’s simple guidance may be helpful.
It’s NOT your job to keep everyone around you happy, and it won’t harm you if they’re unhappy. YOUR opinions are important, and people want and need to hear what YOU have to say.”