4 WAYS TO KEEP A POSITIVE MINDSET
September 22, 2023
Consistently keeping a positive mindset can be a challenge at work. We are all exposed to negativity, which sometimes unavoidably affects our state of mind. Whether it’s a bad customer interaction, a failed project, or an external force, negativity is bound to seep into our moods while on the job.
So, how do we remain optimistic in such situations, and why should we bother? We delve into the impacts of staying positive at work and how to adjust your mindset.
THE IMPORTANCE OF POSITIVITY
Sustaining a positive mindset can do wonders for our minds and our bodies. Bear in mind that positivity does not equate to a bubbly personality. Instead, it’s a state of mind. When positivity dominates our thinking, we can reduce stress and increase our morale. A positive mindset also allows creative juice to flow more freely, inviting colleagues to participate and assist in achieving goals.
However, when we allow negativity to inundate our thoughts, it projects into our communication. A negative mindset can affect team members and leadership as well as have an adverse impact on production. But it’s critical not to confuse negativity with a bad day. Bad days are allowed. Just be sure to brush them off and move onward and upward.
JOT IT DOWN
Maintaining a positive mindset takes work. When our days are burdened with timelines, projects, and meetings, it can create a negative attitude.
In an effort to brush off negativity, start tracking your successes throughout your career. Accomplishments can be minor or significantly influence your career, team, or organization. When you are struggling with a negative mindset, take out your book of achievements and remember what you are capable of and your ability to create a positive impact.
Pro Tip: Keep a “Brag Book” to help you remain positive and use it for future interviews.
IN IT FOR THE LONG RUN
It’s hard to stay positive without the feeling of accomplishment. Creating long-term goals is a surefire way to develop a sense of achievement.
By giving yourself a sense of purpose through goals, you are opening up to positivity. Long-term goals help people stay focused and motivate them to push toward the finish line. Creating a timeline and checking off tasks will assist in executing your goals. Checking off completed tasks will release a wave of dopamine, leading to positive thinking.
Pro Tip: When creating long-term goals, ensure they are challenging yet attainable. Unrealistic goals can cause undue stress.
BOUNDARIES ALL AROUND
Creating personal and professional boundaries is essential in the quest to stay positive. By setting boundaries, you are protecting not only your workload but also your mental health.
Boundaries such as saying no to additional work, avoiding gossip, or even taking your lunch break are all examples of taking control of your surroundings. This type of control can reduce stress, enabling you to maintain a positive mindset.
Pro Tip: Block out time on your work calendar for breaks and lunch to ensure you’re boundaries are clear.
LANGUAGE IS EVERYTHING
The words we choose can impact our mentality and those around us. Not only does language affect us, but our body language influences our well-being, too.
Words are incredibly influential, so being purposeful in the words you choose can help create a positive atmosphere. When faced with challenging moments at work, think of ways to spin the challenge positively. Words such as engaging, supportive, empowering, or successful are ways to assist you in changing your mentality.
Pro Tip: Keep a gratitude journal. Writing a gratitude journal every morning is a great way to start your day positively.
FIND YOUR FIT
You can do so much to help influence your mindset and stay positive, but company culture can negatively impact you despite your best efforts. If you are seeking a new opportunity to flourish in a positive atmosphere, consider partnering with a recruiter.
At Innova, our recruiters understand both their clients and their candidate’s needs. They take the time to understand the culture of all of their clients to ensure that they’re making the best match possible for their candidates. Contact us today to help you find the positive culture you deserve!