The PITA Types
From The PITA Principle: How to work with and avoid becoming a Pain In The Ass
JIST Publishing, 2009
The Sealed PITA (has no opening) = non-self aware, externalizer, defensive, no ownership, Doesn’t receive feedback well, plays victim, passive aggressive (Marie Barone – Raymond; Lilleth – Cheers)
Be Collaborative, Emphasize Positives First, Comment on Specific Behaviors
Honest Reflection, Own that nobody is perfect, Seek feedback
The Over-stuffed PITA = domineering, conceited, self-absorbed, egomania, attention getting (Frazier Crane - Cheers, Frazier; Alex P. Keaton - Family Ties)
Keep instant reaction in check Confront individually Use specific, concrete examples
Replace needs for external praise with internal pats on back Acknowledge value in others
The Sloppy PITA = disorganized, pack rat, free associates, no rhyme or reason, fire-ready-aim (Oscar - The Odd Couple; Dupree – You, me, & Dupree; Ally Sheedy – The Breakfast Club)
Don’t assume intentional sloppiness Initiate following up with sloppy pitas Appreciate creativity
Be aware of Sloppy Impact on others Consult with non-sloppy colleagues = best practices
The Crusty PITA = cynic, negative, overly critical, demeaning, curmudgeon, grouchy (Archie Bunker - All in the Family; Stanley Hudson – The Office)
Rise Above, Don’t Enable (Crusty Trap), Don’t write them off, Confront Individually (crumble)
Pinpoint WHEN Crusty Crust Antenna – Catch self Let colleagues in on crusty situations
The Soggy PITA = wimpy, whining, soft, needy, doesn’t confront directly (talking behind backs), trouble with handling adversity (George - Seinfeld; Ross - Friends; Greg Focker – Meet the Parents)
Have compassion Set Boundaries Exit Strategies (re-direct, postpone) Confront sensitively
Face fear of confrontation & address issues directly Answer “how ya doing” with glass half full
The Make-Your-Own PITA (RIGID) = rigid, anal-retentive, perfectionistic, my way or the highway, doesn't compromise (Monica – Friends; Felix Ungar – The Odd Couple)
Don’t get defensive Use Honey (so don’t dig in deeper) Compromise while standing ground
Pick your “want it my way” battles Fight fair Listen Openly Seek mini compromises
The Royal PITA = Entitled, self-centered, ego-centric, used to getting royal treatment, expects things to come to him (Sharpay Evans – High School Musical; Ferris Bueller – Ferris Bueller’s Day Off)
Remember he means no harm (unaware) Tactful wake-up call Channel Royal Assets
Challenge unjustified feelings of entitlement Become more Team-oriented
