How should I deal with a moody co-worker

Your Concern:

Dear Jerry,

I work with a lady who is currently pregnant and is susceptible to high blood pressure. More often than not I have to endure the moodiness that revolves her world. She is snarky towards the manager whom had put up with her attitude. She is often butting in with the discussion between me and other co-workers creating frustrations more often than not. When approached about her attitude she acts *victimized*. So whats the best way to handle such a person? PS The Manager had spoken to her about her to cooperate with us but it doesn’t seem to work very well so far.

Jerry’s Response:

As a person who has had to deal with a pregnant woman as life partner and as a business colleague, the best advice I can give is to give her a wide berth. You won’t win any points with the boss complaining about it and you won’t win any discussions with this person. Her body is putting her through a lot and the best you can do is provide as much understanding as possible (and stay out of her way when she seems especially moody).

Look at the bright side, if she is normally a decent person to work with, maybe she will go back to her old ways in a few months. Well, maybe not, if she has to go through sleep deprivation with a newborn.

Hoping that she has a happy and healthy baby and that you have the patience you need to cope with her as a coworker during this diffcult time!

Jerry