People are only difficult to the extent that you and I have not...

There is no such thing as a difficult person. We are talking about behaviors, not the person. 


People are only difficult to the extent that you and I have not developed the skills needed to deal with behaviors they bring to the table. 


One of the skills in dealing with those we deem "difficult" is meeting people where they are, getting on the same level as the person. Attempting to understand where they are coming from can go a long way. 


Gather more information before you judge, perspective is everything. Learning the skill of validation is an important lesson to learn in dealing with difficult people. Validation is allowing the other person to have their opinion and their emotions about a situation. 


-from Steven Eastmond (therapist specializing in individual, couple and family counseling)