Resilience

One thing for sure in a corporate life is that there are always people out there who try to tell you, in one way or another, that they are better than you. Even if the message might not be conveyed explicitly as such, it would be manifested in such a way to put you down or ridicule you, for no good reason but the vicious intention - consciously or otherwise - of framing you to where you were thought to belong. 

Whatever political agenda the ill will is hinged on, and whatever egoistic complex it boils down to - a general inclination to eliminate competition, a natural contempt for others competence, or sheer inferiority - the disabling behavior is pathetic. Sadly, it smacks of fascism and contributes to a poisonous environment of political apartheid. Too many ego boasting idiosyncrasies could also lead to an ambience of apathy, frustration or even fear for the general staff - hardly conducive to constructive learning and job satisfaction. 

But if someone tries hard to put you down, you can do no worse than to let your confidence be undermined. Instead of falling into the trap of spitefulness and revenge, however, you should stand tall and ascertain your position with solid performance of competence. Speak and act in good faith, and the armour of professionalism and integrity will shield you against arrows from wicked souls. 

The four agreements, every time and again, particularly for coping with real or imagined scenarios of office politics, can offer enlightening guidance.

When the game is on, of course, you cannot walk away but to play it till the end, until you beat your opponent or be vanquished - beat s/he fair and square or eat humble pie. In any case, live the consequence, i.e., celebrate or be humiliated, with a sense of humour, and bear in mind that the tide could always turn at the next game. Never forget Solon's teaching.