Joyce Weiss

I work with organizations and individuals who want to kick conflict and chaos to the curb - Queen of Conflict Resolution and Communication Coach

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What is Netflix Squid Game? Why Is It So Popular? – Part 2

Have you ever watched a TV show or movie and knew exactly what motivated you to see it?

Maybe you were drawn into the romantic plot, haunting thriller, impressing drama, thrilling mystery, or comedy.

Last week I wrote about the Squid Game. And, this week I have more answers on why it’s the most-watched show ever on Netflix.

Revisit or read article 1:  Squid Game Is a Hit. Here’s Why It’s So Popular.

I promise NOT to give any spoiler alerts for those who haven’t seen Squid Game yet.

The main plot is that 456 humans are driven to play a game of death and survival in the hope of winning $38 million. While other characters feel entitled to watch their fellow beings squirm in fear and misery.

The Conflict and Themes in Squid Game squid game | coaching strategies | conflict in the workplace | humor | communication strategies

There are so many themes in this 9 part series.

  • Social instability
  • Study of Human Beings
  • Good versus evil
  • Inequality
  • Insecurity
  • Mind games
  • Poverty and desperation
  • The meaning of life
  • Can money bring us happiness

How Money Plays a Role in the Squid Game Conflict 

Many of us have experienced how money can turn us against one another in our families. 

Whether we have too much or too little can ruin our lives.

Additionally, the ending of the movie was fascinating and troublesome. No, I won’t disclose this. 🙂

Questions from You About the Conflict in Squid Game

Thanks to several of you who sent me a private email with your questions.

  1. Is it safe to watch with my kids?

I don’t want to sound like a politician. Especially because it depends on your children’s age and tolerance to violence. 
I suggest that you watch 2 episodes to make sure you are comfortable giving the green light to your kids to watch the Squid Game.

     2. My friends tell me how they couldn’t stop watching it. Tell us why Joyce.

I really can’t tell you why. Additionally, I know that I’m one of those who was curious enough to keep on watching it.

Many of you know that I’m a conflict resolution coach. Curiosity is in my DNA. My son suggested that I “try” watching it since he knows his mom. 
I’m open and eager to learn new research about conflict. That’s one of my motivations for starting this blog in 2010.

All I can say is that I completed the first season in 5 days. And was shocked at the ending. 

     3. Joyce, is it worth watching Squid Game?

It’s worth watching if you can stand all the violence and tragedy.

It’s a test in NOT judging others. We have no idea how we would act if we were one of the 456 players.

It’s not a show to enjoy. Even though I laughed a few times. I warn you NOT to watch it before bedtime – especially if you have an addictive personality. Don’t blame me if you stay up late binge-watching. 🙂

A Curious Conversation at the Hair Salon

My hairstylist and I were discussing the plot since she decided not to watch it. Six people in the salon heard us talking and they came running up to us.
The conversation was so engaging. All six of these people felt the same that I did. None of us could give a logical reason why we were so drawn to the series. Yet, we couldn’t stop talking about the plot.

An interesting fact is that the ages ranged from 16 years old to 85 in this spirited beauty salon discussion.

Final Thoughts About the Conflict in the Squid Gamejuggle it all |squid game

I repeat that curiosity is an important part of my thinking process. My natural skill is to coach others to find their own answers. All I do is ask questions 🙂

I had to find out why there was so much hype about this show. 

Sure I started out watching just to explore this series.

The meaning of life became apparent at the end. What does our life mean? What do we still need to achieve or do to feel satisfied? 

I found many answers a few days after I finished watching the last (9th) episode. 

Clients ask me to support them with stressful situations in their life. 

One of the questions they delve into is, “How can I learn from some major mistakes that I made?” Or, “Conflict is standing in my way and I feel stuck. How can I move forward either in my career or with my personal relationships?”

A big takeaway for me is to stop judging ourselves. And, if possible, how to accept others’ differences and decisions. Both of these are not easy to do. Additionally, this is not new for any of us. Yet, judgment gets in our way during the conflict.

One of my many strategies is that real growth comes after we fail, learn from our mistakes, and stay curious even during tough times.

Let’s Stay Connected

Please share your thoughts about this week’s post. How does it resonate with you?
You can share in the comment section or send me a private email HERE.

Until Next Time,

Joyce Weiss, M.A., CSP, CVP
Conflict Resolution and Communication Coach
Queen of Conflict Resolution

P.S. Please share this post on your social media. As a result, other growth-minded people can reduce their high drama and inner stress. We made it easy for you. The shareable social media links are below. 

P.P.S. I coach emerging leaders, executives, teams, and Human Resource Professionals to feel comfortable using their voice without losing their cool – so they feel heard and respected.

P.P.P.S Are you {or your direct reports} ready to explore working with me as your private coach?  It’s easy and fits anyone’s budget and schedule.
Call me at 248.681.5831 or send me an email
Schedule your complimentary 20 – minute discovery call

 

 

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Squid Game is a Hit. Here’s Why It’s So Popular

Have you heard of the Netflix TV series, Squid Game? 

If so, I look forward to hearing your opinion about this series. Especially because it examines the conflict among privilege, humanity, and survival.

Here’s a Description of Squid Game

The series revolves around a contest where 456 players in deep financial debt put their lives at risk. And, they play a series of children’s games for the chance to win a ₩45.6 billion prize {south Korean won}. The title of the series draws from a similarly named Korean children’s game.

Social and mental health issues, from gambling addiction to the abuse of social privilege and wealth are part of the equation. 

It’s like watching Hunger Games and Lord of the Flies yet with more brutality, violence, and dark themes. Yikes! 

In Squid Game, the lack of empathy and cruel abuse of power is more difficult to watch than the violence.

Hwang had conceived of the idea based on his own economic struggles early in life as well as the class disparity in South Korea. 

Squid Game was released worldwide on September 17, 2021, to critical acclaim and international attention. Attracting more than 142 million member households during its first four weeks from launch, it is Netflix’s most-watched series to date, surpassing 2020’s Bridgerton.

Why I Decided to Watch Squid Game

squid game
Copyright: loeskieboom

I was warned by my kids that it’s violent, dark, and twisted. They also shared that it could be a series that I’d like because it’s about the survival of the fittest, teams, and the good and ugly sides of humanity. And, it’s about inner conflict – my kids know me. 🙂

I can’t stop watching it. It pulled me in immediately. At this time I’ve only seen 4 out of 9 episodes.

Lessons Learned from the Popular Show

No one knows what’s going on in other people’s lives. Most of the characters are in debt, gamblers, lie to their families, and struggle to survive. 

It’s sad to see. We all know people who suffer from family members who are desperate and make bad decisions. They just can’t get out of their conflict. And, they constantly wait for the BIG horse race to make them rich.

Have You Seen Squid Game?

Please share your opinions if you’ve seen even 1 episode. 

If you decide to watch it after your read this blog, please don’t do this right before you go to bed. It’s so shocking and the violence is even worse than Pulp Fiction.

Next week I will share my thoughts after I finish the series.  I’m thrilled to say that there are only 9 episodes. Something keeps me glued to the screen. When I figure this out, I will let you know.

Let’s Stay Connected

Please share your thoughts about this week’s post. How does it resonate with you?
You can share your thoughts in the comment section or send me a private email HERE.

Until Next Time,

Joyce Weiss, M.A., CSP, CVP
Conflict Resolution and Communication Coach
Queen of Conflict Resolution

P.S. Please share this post on your social media. As a result, other growth-minded people can reduce their high drama and inner stress. We made it easy for you. You have the shareable social media links below. 

P.P.S. I’m the Human Resource Professional’s Partner. I coach emerging leaders, executives, and teams to feel comfortable using their voice without losing their cool – so they feel heard and respected.

P.P.P.S Are you {or your direct reports} ready to explore working with me as your private coach?  It’s easy and fits anyone’s budget and schedule.
Call me at 248.681.5831 or send an email: Joyce@JoyceWeiss.com.

Schedule your complimentary 20 – minute discovery call

 

 

 

 

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Surprisingly Easy Ways to Deal with Chronic Complainers | Part 2

Hello Dear Blog Readers!

Welcome to Part 2 of this blog series: Surprisingly Easy Ways to Deal with Chronic Complainers.

We covered 2 stories about chronic complainers in Part 1. They included 2 people who complained about packing for a trip and cleaning their house after construction workers left a mess.
Additionally, I also shared tips on how to deal with these chronic complainers.

Read Part 1 to discover or recap the stories and tips.

This week you will find more ideas on how to deal with these chronic complainers. There are several studies that show employees leave jobs because of these toxic workers. Additionally, they are tired of listening to their whining.

I coach others on how to stop this wasted productivity. Listening to chronic complainers takes up too much time.

Strategy #1 On How to Deal with Chronic Complainers

chronic complainers
A chronic complainer is whining to her colleagues.
  • These toxic people complain about work, relationships, family, the long commute, the rainy weather, age, and drum rolls – politics!
  • We feel drained after we listen and listen.
  • They have legitimate complaints at times.
  • The problem is that most of their toxic words can become contagious and look out for morale going south.
  • It’s ok to validate their comment at first.
  • Say something like, “I can see why you are so upset.”
  • This works with others who are not chronic complainers. Additionally, all they want to do is have someone hear about their complaint.

Validation can make things worse with chronic complainers. And you can fall into the trap and the whining can go on 

Strategy # 2 On How to Deal with Chronic Complainers

  • Ask them if they would like to hear your thoughts about the complaint.
  • You may be lucky and create a case scenario that shows the complainer another option.
  • Additionally, this may fuel the fire.
  • Handle this strategy carefully.
  • Don’t sound judgmental or critical.
  • I know that you know this! I just need to give you a friendly reminder so YOU don’t get pulled into the complainer’s drama.

Strategy # 3 On How to Deal with Chronic Complainers

  • Set a personal boundary on how long you will listen to the chronic complainer.
  • Exit gracefully.
  • Let them know that you have a meeting in 5 minutes.
  • Hopefully, they will get the hint.

Here are 2 questions for you:

  1. What is the complaint that you hear at work that you are sick and tired of hearing?
  2. How does your family drive you crazy with their chronic whining?

Please comment in the comment section.

You can send me a private email with personal issues that you want to explore.

Read Part 1 to discover or recap the stories and tips.

Let’s Stay Connected

Please share your thoughts about this week’s post. How does it resonate with you?
You can share your ideas in the comment section or send me a private email HERE.

Until Next Time,

Joyce Weiss, M.A., CSP, CVP
Conflict Resolution and Communication Coach
Queen of Conflict Resolution

P.S. Please share this post on your social media. As a result, other growth-minded people can reduce their high drama and inner stress. We made it easy for you. You have the shareable social media links on the left.  Easy Peasy! 

P.P.S. I’m the Human Resource Professional’s Partner. I coach employees and managers to feel comfortable using their voice without losing their cool – so they feel heard and respected.

P.P.P.S Are you {or your direct reports} ready to explore working with me as your private coach?  It’s easy and fits anyone’s budget and schedule.
Call me at 248.681.5831 or send an email: Joyce@JoyceWeiss.com.

Schedule your complimentary 20 – minute discovery call

 

 

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Surprisingly Easy Ways to Deal with Chronic Complainers | Part 1

Chronic complainers are everywhere these days! Sure, we feel empathy for others who complain about health, relationships, or work. And there are other times when the complaints are so outrageous that we want to walk away or yell at the other person. At least I do! 😊 constant complainers

Story 1 About Chronic Complainers

I was at a restaurant the other day and heard the following conversations:

“My house is so dusty, and I can’t wait for the construction crew to leave!”

You may be thinking so, Joyce what’s the big deal? The complainer is so lucky to have the resources to have her house remodeled. Dirt and dust are part of the reality when we have home improvement projects. It is what it is.

Story 2 About Chronic Complainers

At another table, I heard a person say, “I’m not looking forward to going home because I have to pack for our 3-week cruise.”

Again, you may be more tolerant of complainers than I am. This traveler is fortunate to go on such a luxurious vacation and packing is part of the equation when one travels. It is what it is! These 2 friends are perfect for each other.

So, Joyce, What are You Saying?

Complaints reveal a lot about the person who is speaking. We all know spoiled adults sounding like 2-year-old children and who are inconvenienced.
They don’t do well when either large or small changes happen in their life. It’s stressful if we work or live with people like this.

Of course, we all can turn into complainers at times. We are all human. I’m talking about chronic complainers.

Joyce, Please Give us a Tip on How to Deal with These Chronic Complainers & Whiners

Here are some options for dealing with chronic complainers: chronic complainers |improved work-life balance

  • Validate the person by saying, “That must be tough.”
  • Repeat the complainer’s situation and maybe they will come up with a solution {it’s possible 😊}.
  • Ask the complainer if you can give your opinion. You can ask, “What other reasons could George have been promoted and not you?” They may help the complainer to get out of the victim role if you are lucky.
  • You always have the right to express how you have a meeting in 5 minutes if you have done your best to listen and the victimization goes on and on.

Here are 2 questions for you:

1. What is a complaint that drives you crazy?

2. How do you handle people who are chronic complainers?

Please comment in the comment section.

You can always send me a private email.

Let’s Stay Connected

Please share your thoughts about this week’s post. How does it resonate with you?
You can share your thoughts in the comment section or send me a private email HERE.

Until Next Time,

Joyce Weiss, M.A., CSP, CVP
Conflict Resolution and Communication Coach
Queen of Conflict Resolution

P.S. Please share this post on your social media. As a result, other growth-minded people can reduce their high drama and inner stress. We made it easy for you. You have the shareable social media links below. 

P.P.S Are you {or your direct reports} ready to explore working with me as your private coach?  It’s easy and fits anyone’s budget and schedule. Discover the details HERE
Call me at 248.681.5831 or send an email: Joyce@JoyceWeiss.com.
Schedule your complimentary 20 – minute discovery call

 

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Are We Biased “Thinking that We Know” Our Blind Spots? A Funny Story

The Importance of Knowing Our Blind Spots blind spots

Science has proven that we all have a blind spot bias and that many of us aren’t aware of this. Of course, this has negative consequences. Because at times we don’t listen to the feedback from others when they share their opinion about our blind spots. We are certain that we know our story – no blind spots.

Blind Spots are 2 words that coaches love using. It’s an important aspect to uncover blind spots for clients and ourselves too!

The Johari Window is a coaching tool that is still powerful today. Part of the Johari Window is knowing your blind spots. It’s so much fun when we get together in small teams and do this exercise. People are shocked that they didn’t see their own blind spot until a team member pointed it out in the exercise.  There are some people who deny them. That’s another blog post, I’m sure.

The story below happened at a restaurant when I was dining with friends. We were talking with our waiter, Claud, and the story’s conclusion was better than a dark chocolate dessert!

Here we go with another TRUE story.

Story:  Knowing Our Blind Spots blind spots

I gave my waiter, Claud a compliment stating that our friends enjoyed having him serve us. He thanked us and added some details to the complement. This is what he said, “Thanks. I’m training the new waiter because he stays at the customer’s table way too long. And gives guests so many details about his background in the food industry. I’ve told him that there is a fine line in being friendly and overbearing.”

Claud’s comments made sense. Until – he came back and spent 10 minutes talking to us about his resume. Are you ready for more? He brought over a chair and decided to join us while he was talking.

You may think that this is a nice moment in fine dining.

Claud had a blind spot. No, I didn’t point it out to him. He didn’t see that his actions were exactly what he was training the new waiter not to do.

Lesson About Knowing Our Blind Spots

We all have a bias about our blind spots. The lucky people who are in deep and trusting relationships or who learn from a coach benefit from this feedback.  Because they understand the importance of going deep and discovering blind spots.

Claud just told us about his mentee and how he was training him. Claud didn’t see the irony of his story.

We have to admit to ourselves that our reality is only one of the many realities that exist.

It’s important to be open to others who are brave enough to share their opinions. This may be a golden opportunity for your professional or personal growth.

Let’s Stay Connected

Please share your thoughts about this week’s post. How does it resonate with you?

You can share your thoughts in the comment section or send me a private email HERE.

What are some of your blind spots? Let’s celebrate that you know these and had the courage to go deep!

Find out how easy it is to work with Joyce as your private coach.

Until Next Time,

Joyce Weiss, M.A., CSP, CVP
Conflict Resolution and Communication Coach
Queen of Conflict Resolution

P.S. Please share this post on your social media. As a result, other growth-minded people can reduce their high drama and inner stress. We made it easy for you. You have the shareable social media links below. 

P.P.S. I’m the Human Resource Professional’s Partner. I coach employees and managers to feel comfortable using their voice without losing their cool – so they feel heard and respected.

P.P.P.S Are you {or your direct reports} ready to explore working with me as your private coach?  It’s easy and fits anyone’s budget and schedule.

Call me at 248.681.5831 or send an email: Joyce@JoyceWeiss.com.
Schedule your complimentary 20 – minute discovery call HERE

Find out how easy it is to work with Joyce as your private coach

Contact Joyce

Email: joyce@joyceweiss.com
Phone: 248-681-5831