I Got A Lebowskian Rash, Man

[Rev. PikaSonic]

Hey Dudes,

I have a coworker that I have to work in the same room with during the summer and he's a total asshole. He seems nice most of the time but every once in a while he says or does something that brings out the Walter in me. As an example, our boss knows that we don't always get along so he assigned us different jobs each with the same deadlines so that we have stuff to keep us occupied and we don't have to deal with each other. I've noticed he's been slacking off in his work and I think he's getting stressed because of it so instead of buckling down and getting his work done he comes up to me and tells me I should be helping him and that my job can wait. He says this in the most condescending manner like he's better than me even though he's not. Sounds like the Big Lebowski if I do say so myself. I've been doing my best to keep my Walter at bay by breathing and self talk but I'm not sure if I can hold out much longer. Any ideas on how to deal with this guy?

[Brother D]

I say patience man. Tact is also key in these situations. You could say, " look man, I know you want help, but I can't do my job AND yours."  Or try and find out why this dude's having trouble with his work. Maybe he's got shit going on in his life that he takes to work and for whatever reason, takes it out on you.

I'm not saying you should "parent" the guy, just get your own shit done and if you have any time after that, help him if he's not being a dick.

[treefinger]

Perhaps you should let your supervisor know that a raise is in order. If this jackass wants to dump his work on you, do you not deserve more compensation? Am I wrong?

[RandoRock]

I second the patience idea, when you lose your cool with someone like that all it does it let them win. Find away to approach the subject with out going full Walter. If there is one thing that kills a reactionary it's unflinching Dudeness/kindness, just be chill about it but don't let him dictate what happens...if that makes sense.