Creating A Positive Work Vibe
We have all had a job(s) that were miserable to be at. It’s reasonable to assume part of the reason the job is miserable is due to culture as well as our own attitudes. Thankfully, perception can be in the eye of the beholder and if you choose to change your attitude it could have a trickle affect. If you are lucky and in a job that you love/provides a positive work environment it never hurts to make sure you are doing everything in your power to keep it that way. Either way we have some ideas on how you can make a bad situation better, and a great situation even greater.
Five Ways to Bring Positivity to Work
1. Give gratitude. We mention gratitude a lot in our Buckner Wellness Blog and for good reason—it works! The more grateful you are in every facet of your life (even the less ideal situations) the happier and healthier you are. Living a life of gratitude also makes it more pleasant for others to be around you as well. To get started practicing gratitude a little more at work is easy. A simple “thank you” can go a long way. Just make sure you are specific and explain why or what the person did was helpful to you. Chances are pretty good they will either help you again or come to you for help at some point and that is what enforces a positive and healthy work environment.
2. Celebrate wins. It doesn’t matter if it is someone else’s, a team effort or something completely random like a birthday. Take the time to acknowledge special situations and make everyone around you feel good. The more you reward and celebrate milestones, the better you and your teammates will work together in the future.
3. Be mindful of responding to criticism. No one likes being challenged, especially if you feel like you are right or have a point. However, it is important to remember the other person probably feels the same way. Rather than giving a terse and defensive response, consider what the other person is saying and ask them to elaborate further. This promotes team building and idea sharing in safe space. The fact of the matter is you don’t know what great ideas and common ground you can cover in that conversation unless you give it a chance to evolve. Listening to a differing opinion never hurt anyone and promotes idea sharing. That will only make everyone better.
4. Randomly be kind. This is another action that takes very little effort but can make a big impact. Sharing a treat, encouraging someone through a rough day or offering to help on a project you aren’t on are all things that can make someone’s day. Especially if they aren’t expecting it. When you are kind you build trust and people will be more likely to come to you for help, advice or returning the favor.
5. Smile. Again, so simple and yet can pack a punch. Not only will you make someone else feel good, but chances are high you will also improve your mood. It is impossible to be sad, mad, or angry when you are smiling. Science says so. If you feel like you might be on the verge of a bad day listen to some comedy or songs that make you happy and let the grins (and great day) win out.