A simple and effective way to reduce negative emotions when thinking of someone you do not get along with is to separate the behavior from the person. Break them up. Think of the behavior and then think about the person. This moment of reflection will focus you on what you have in common instead of reinforcing what you perceive you don't. By taking a minute to think you limit your own reaction or overeaction to one behavior. The pause will increase your capacity for understanding. We all are a bundles of emotions, thoughts and coping skills. We all have light and shadow. To see only what we don't like or only what we like in others is a disservice to ourselves.

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