Positive Attitude in the Workplace.
Have you heard of the domino effect? Simply defined, the domino effect is a collection of events that have all resulted because of a single event. For example, knocking down the first domino will cause all the other dominos to fall. The domino effect can be observed almost anywhere but it’s especially easy to detect in the workplace. It’s often easier to see a domino effect when it’s negative. The negative expressions of one employee can take a meeting from productive to pitiful in a matter of minutes. Eliminating workplace negativity is the first step. But if you can take it a step further and create a positive attitude in the workplace, the resulting domino effect can transform nearly every aspect of your business.
Tips for Promoting a Positive Attitude in the Workplace
Start with yourself
Take a moment to evaluate your own outlook. If you want to be a leader, you need to make sure you’re putting out the right vibes. Focus on milestones the team reaches, no matter how minute. Recognize employees who are going the extra mile. Make sure you’re focusing on creating healthy work relationships that make everyone feel like they’re an important part of the team.
Show gratitude
Part of showing gratitude is seeking out the positive qualities in others. This can help to develop respect, trust, and confidence throughout the workplace. Now isn’t the time to be shy. Compliment coworkers on their strengths and what they bring to the table. You may help them realize something about themselves they didn’t know. Remember, gratitude changes your vibrational frequency in the world.
Focus on the positive
What you focus on will grow. This isn’t just work related either so if you don’t believe it, give it a try in your personal life first. Instead of focusing on what you can’t change, focus on what you’re thankful for. Focus on what brings you joy and you’ll notice an abundance of joy in your life. Focus on trust in your relationship and watch it strengthen before your eyes. Retraining your eye and mind to focus on the positive aspect of everything life has to offer will eventually transfer to the workplace.
Rethink your wording
Everything you say or write in the office should have a positive spin on it. Instead of writing, “Don’t forget to recycle” in a memo, simply write “Please recycle.” The positive wording is better received, and the message is more likely to be taken to heart. Before you speak at a meeting or directly to an employee, do your best to plan out each sentence so it contains positive words instead of negative.
Smile
When in doubt, smile. A paper published in the journal Trends in Cognitive Sciences finally put the science behind something we’ve always known. Facial expressions are contagious. This goes for both positive and negative. So, if you’re walking through the office with a frown on your face, even if it really doesn’t mean anything, the people around you are more likely to frown themselves. But flash a smile at everyone you pass and you’re more likely to create a domino effect of smiles throughout the office, boosting positivity.
Positivity is a powerful emotion. When your team has an overall positive outlook, it becomes easier to reach goals and draw in customers. The power of a positive attitude in the workplace is almost immeasurable.
If negativity has been the root cause of your company’s less than stellar performance, start implementing our tips for creating a positive attitude in the workplace as soon as possible. If you’re struggling to create a positive environment, call 630.928.0510 or fill out the form and one of our team members will contact you.