Think about three people you know who you dislike or find annoying. What is it, specifically, that you dislike about them? Make a list.
Now think about three people you admire or aspire to emulate. What is it about them you admire? Make another list. Be as specific as possible. Here’s why:
It turns out that the things we dislike most about others tend to be things we also dislike about ourselves. The traits we admire in other people are often traits we possess.
When you experience a strong emotional reaction to another person, positive or negative, there’s an opportunity to learn something about yourself.