Anti-patterns are studies of what not to do. Sometimes knowing what not to do, helps you avoid problems before they become problems. So I'm devoting a series of shows to lodge personnel dynamics and of all the different ways things can go wrong, with people, with small groups and committees and with management decisions. Oftentimes we are our own worst enemy.
In this first part, we'll deal with "personal" anti-patterns. Every lodge has at least one. One guy who has...how shall we say it...a high cost/benefit ratio? These are guys who cause problems, who are there disrupting harmony, sniping, being negative and killing morale. We could regale each other for hours with stories from the front lines, but we are here to focus on solutions. Usually it's possible to deal with problem people if you understand the root causes of their behavior. You might not be able to transform the most stubborn crusty curmudgeon into a model brother but you can keep problem people from causing bigger problems in the lodge. Have a listen and let's see if we can add more patterns/solutions to the mix. And you have had success stories in dealing with problem personalities, post here and tell us about it.