In business and life, there will always be things to celebrate along with things that are not as celebratory. Despite these less enjoyable times, it should still be a priority to look for the good. This is, of course, easier said than done. But when we shift our perspectives and stop looking at the bad as much, everything else will shift with it.
As a leader, it is important to lead by example. If you are consistently dreading and stressing over your work, those you are leading will begin to feel that way too. On the flip side, even if you are not in a position of leadership, you can encourage others with your joy.
Joy is contagious. Personally, I have begun to focus more on the small victories. For example, I am in the process of moving. I had several small goals for packing, however, I only completed a couple of my goals. Rather than focusing on the tasks I did not complete, I focused on the ones I did complete. This left me feeling proud of myself instead of disappointed.
Here are a few tips to walk away with to focus on the good:
1 – Don’t let negative Nancy bring you down.
It is easy to let the negative get to you. But so long as you do the best you can and you focus on your personal wins, it is easier to ignore the disappointments.
2 – Celebrate the wins, big or small!
Vitality South has incorporated a bell into our workplace specifically for the wins. No matter the size of the win, we ring the bell. Sharing these victories, whether it is learning a new shortcut or completing a big project has encouraged the whole team. This doesn’t mean you have to put a bell in your office, it can be as simple as a five high for victorious moments. This also applies outside the office as well!
3 – Be the good.
It’s cliche, but it works. Be the positivity you want to see. When you are joyful and happy, it is contagious to those around you. So spread the joy!
4 – Don’t compare yourself to others.
You can only be you. Don’t try to be someone else and compare your success to others. Do the best you can; you will succeed.
No matter what, remember that you are not alone in your battles. Whatever you are facing, you’ve got this. Trust yourself, look for the good, and do your best.
“You must be the change you want to see in the world.” – Gandhi
Guest writer,
Dacey Jade Sivils Shands
