Having that list of people you’ll never work with again (and not letting them know they are on it)

Let's face it – work can sometimes feel like a battleground, especially when you've got colleagues who seem determined to make your life difficult. Maybe they're gunning for your job, trying to steal your thunder, or spreading gossip to make you look bad. Dealing with these kinds of people can be a real pain, but there are ways to handle them without losing your cool.

First off, don't let them get under your skin. It's easy to get mad or want to get even, but reacting impulsively will only make things worse. Take a breather, look at the situation objectively, and think about the best way to respond. Keeping your cool is the first step to keeping the situation from spiraling out of control.

It’s ok to be frustrated with co-workers, just don’t let them see that frustration

Focus on doing your job well. The best way to shut down negative vibes is by showing what you're made of. Keep delivering top-notch work and show everyone why you're an asset to the team. When your performance speaks for itself, it's harder for anyone to mess with you.

Build a support network. Surround yourself with colleagues who've got your back and mentors who can offer guidance. Having people in your corner can make all the difference when you're dealing with a difficult situation. They can give you advice, offer a different perspective, or just lend a sympathetic ear when you need to vent.

Keep records. If things get really bad, it helps to have a paper trail. Document any instances of bad behavior or attempts to sabotage your work. You might not need it, but it's better to be safe than sorry. Having evidence can back up your claims if you ever need to take things to HR or higher-ups.

Don't stoop to their level. It can be tempting to gossip or spread rumors in retaliation, but that only adds fuel to the fire. Rise above the drama and focus on finding constructive solutions. Be professional and don't let yourself get dragged into petty arguments.

Sometimes, you just have to accept that some people aren't worth your time. It's okay to distance yourself from toxic colleagues and set boundaries. You don't have to be best buds with everyone at work, especially if they're causing you more stress than they're worth.

But here's the thing – don't go broadcasting your dislike for certain colleagues. Keep it on the down-low and maintain a professional demeanor at all times. Being openly hostile or confrontational won't do you any favors. Instead, focus on building positive relationships with the people who matter and let the negativity roll off your back.

At the end of the day, dealing with difficult co-workers is just part of the job. Stay calm, keep doing your thing, and don't let anyone else drag you down. By taking the high road and staying true to yourself, you'll come out on top, no matter what.