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Nip Negativity in the Bud
Heaven knows you can't avoid frustrations and disappointments on the job site or in the office, but you can prevent them from damaging you. "Damaging me?" you ask. "How?"
Well, no one really wants to develop a reputation as a Cynical Sal at work, so this is about how to quiet down your inner-brat for the good of everyone.
With a little attention, we all can improve our negative habits. Here are a few pointers to help you stay on the sunny side of the street.
- Avoid downbeat topics. Stop rehashing stupid mistakes — your own or those made by others.
- Stop complaining. No one wants to listen to the same drumbeat of negative comments over and over again. Try to resolve the issue either by actually resolving it ― or by resolving to get over it.
- Be respectful when you disagree. Be mindful of words or phrases that can be perceived negatively. Get your point across once you've made sure there is no misunderstanding and a disagreement is truly a disagreement. But try to do it with grace.
- Avoid using “but.” It's a fine word in and of itself, but you should be aware of how much you're using it.
- Limit your correction of others. Instead of coming off as helpful when you are correcting others, you may be perceived as someone who only wants to find fault.
- Word things positively. Monitor your language and put a positive spin on things where you can.
- Relax. Keep your nonverbal communication upbeat. As you go about your day, maintain a pleasant expression, avoid frowns and glares, relax your shoulders, unfurl that brow and unclench your fists.
Remember, customers can sense negativity ― and that’s not something you or your company want to broadcast.
If being positive doesn't come naturally to you, fake it. Eventually, something will take.
If you can eliminate one negative behavior you have, you're ahead of most people.
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