Fighting in the office: the full story

As you all know by now, FC and I had no relationship. I don't want to use the word hate, as it is a very strong word, but in this case, it's true.

There is a whole stream of events that had led up to this point of actually fighting (arguing) for the whole office to hear. Basically, I tried to do my best to ignore her. But it became increasingly difficult. One of her favourite tricks was to deny or fight accusations* in front of our bosses. Then I attempted to control the situation and 'make it right'. Well, that lead to arguing. In the office. Everyone could hear us, as we have an open plan office.

There was really nowhere for this to go, as we had tried going outside, to the cafe downstairs and it didn't help. Nothing helped.
It is sad that a grown woman will use passive-aggressive behaviour to create an atmosphere of hostility.
What I have learned from this situation is that there was something else going on besides her obvious hatred of me. She clearly was not happy and chose to take her anger and her frustration out on me in a juvenile fashion. I also realized that allowing her to think that missing deadlines and then screaming at me when I called her out on it was her way of trying to manipulate the situation, along with gossiping about me. It is also important to note that I learned how to be a better manager. I don't put up with any nonsense anymore with the new person. They know exactly where they stand on the hierarchy pole.

My biggest lesson here is that NEVER ever back down when it comes to dealing with someone like this. One day, they will break, and they will leave. She left in December after months of trying to manipulate the situation. In the end, I "won", but it cost me a lot of self confidence which I am just now beginning to get back. Even though, I disliked her so intensely, I do have to thank her for one thing: leaving.

*accusations of: not making deadlines, telling me incorrect things, making mistakes, attitude problems