Hi Junerain, I have these qualities but assertive. What I find most astonishing is the number of people who believe they have a right to behave as they do. I do not believe we invite any of this for, looking at myself, this isn't what I send out. For instance, I was verbally attacked today, sitting in my cubicle for "interferring in a social clique's atmosphere". "I don't know why you are over here anyway." Sitting at my desk I could hardly see how I was in their way. What I wanted to do was say a string of foul words. I just told the person that they would need to speak with my boss. They left.

Did I invite the attack? No. What caused the attack? Someone else's need to control a situation. My presence was not wanted and the cubicle had been enlarged causing the move of someone else's cubicle. Did that have anything to do with me? No, but this is what they wanted me to believe. Was I floored when I looked at the reason for the attack? Yes, because I knew that it had nothing to do with me. BUT, will I have regular conversations with this group? No even professionally. There's no reason to place myself in this position again. I face my computer screen and my back was always to anyone walking up so they had to get my attention for me to turn around. What I also learned from this recurring theme is that the more you are aware of the real reason for the occurance, the better off you are of knowing yourself, your reaction and the people you meet. It doesn't prevent the attack unless you're the bully, but it does make you more aware of those seeking attention in any manner they can get it.

To add another item, have you noticed that attacks come from people who have banded to ensure someone else has their back and almost always to someone who is a loner, a socializer without the clique or someone new. The very presence of a person who able to work, socialize, have invitation by someone other than them or who is successful despite their efforts scares the &#$%%% out of them.

Sure, it is not easy being in these situations but we are the souls willing to see a different side of a person. The child-like quality is genuine