How to Stay Positive Throughout the Workday
- By Andrew Jacobs
- Apr 6, 2017
How to Stay Positive Throughout the Workday
Whether you’ve just had a pretty tough weekend or you wake up in a bad mood and feel like there is no going back, well … just … stop. There is a way to get back, and it’s easier than some (most) may suggest.
Here at the JAM Blog we’re great at crafting, which is actually awesome for the mindset, but we’re also great at positivity. Well, sometimes. Here’s how to stay positive throughout the workday or at least how to get to a state where work isn’t a record player playing the same song over and over and over and over and – you get it.
1. Have "Positivity" Days
So of course there are days that are going to be bad. It happens and it’s life. But when that day comes and goes, you have to team up with your coworkers and tell each other that you all need a positivity day tomorrow. It's a day where you don’t complain about anything, whether it’s related to work or your personal life, for one whole work day. You keep it in or at least are not allowed to say anything to other people around you. The next day can be full of complaints about yesterday, but for that one day, there should be zero.
Why it Helps:
When other people complain, you are more prone to do the same. The exact thing happens when people do not ... you don’t seem to do it as much either. And having a positivity day actually works. Some of the office did it recently, and it made everything better - even the taste of my turkey and cheese sandwich (which I announced was the best sandwich I ever had).
2. Put Positive Post-Its Everywhere
So a co-worker, who I call my daughter, aka baby girl, is the best daughter I could ask for without having an actual daughter (phew! Am I right?). Recently, she decided to start putting post-its on my desk before I come in. One says “I am brilliant, bright, and beautiful!’ Another says “‘I deserve and receive massive amounts of love every moment of every day”. And sometimes, brace yourselves - this is crazy, I give her some too! Yeah, we're awesome.
Why it Helps:
You walk into work. It’s already a bad day. There was super traffic and you wanted to go home before you even stepped into your car. You finally sit down, and wait for your computer to start. You can’t help but notice the notes explaining how beautiful and lovely you are. I think I rest my case.
3. Have Something to Look Forward To
I’ve always been someone who loves to go home no matter what, but when there is something besides being home to look forward to (meeting old friends, going to Barnes & Noble, working out – yeah I know, it’s a thing for some people), you’ll have an easier time getting through the day.
Why it Helps:
Frustrated at work? Keep telling yourself okay, just a few more days, one more day, a few more hours until (insert fun activity here). If you have something to keep you going, sure enough you’ll keep going.
4. Make a Gratitude List
If it gets really bad and you can’t seem to get the negativity out of your loud mind, take a break from (trying to) work. Because when we are negative, our work doesn’t go as well as we want it to. A negative mind correlates to bad work (at least in your head). Open a notebook and write. Write what you’re grateful for. Trust me, it will be way longer than you think. And if you can’t think of anything, make yourself write down ten things. Look at it for a while.
Why it Helps:
When you step back from the little, minute things that are stressing you out or annoying you or making you crazy, and write down the big things, you start to realize how small and trivial the annoyances actually are. It puts things in a different perspective and soon enough you might just start laughing at how small that little ant is that’s trying to crawl back in your head. Squish it before it gets any bigger.
5. Be Selfish
Yes, you read it right. Sometimes people surrounding you are the ones that are stressing you out. Sometimes it gets to the point where you never think you’ll get out of the deep, deep hole they dug for both of you. It might not even be a person, it might be a blank illustrator artboard, or an infinite excel sheet that needs to be fixed. Don’t let those screens get you down either! Be selfish and write a blog about how negative you have to stop being (and how to do so) or listen to music, watch a short video, go to lunch alone, whatever it takes. Shut everything out except the one thing you need to do for yourself to get you happy. (See how many you’s I put in there?).
Why it Helps:
The word ‘selfish’ always has a negative connotation. But it doesn’t always have to be. Of course, if someone is asking you for help, don’t tell them well Kristin Jane Smith said to be selfish so… But also don’t forget about you. This will help because 1) it’ll make you a stronger person, 2) it’ll make you a more confident person 3) what’s more positive than a positive image of yourself?
6. Have "Happy Song Fridays" (or any day of the week really)
Recently our office mom, (aka me), decided that we needed a happy day. Not because of anything necessarily, but because I love team bonding and because I’m the mom (did I mention that?) who wants her kids to all get along. What better way to bring people together besides happy music? Each person picked 5 of their favorite ‘happy’ songs, and on Friday we played them all on shuffle. The four hour playlist certainly created some hip vibes (isn't that what you kids are saying nowadays?).
Why it Helps:
Music creates feelings and feelings coincide with actions. When someone is listening to happy music, they are bound to feel happy, thus creating some kind of happy action. So it might not be super productive if your song is on (yes, I got up and danced at one point) but it will bring people together, and create an overall happy environment.
I really hope this helps, even if just for a few minutes of reading the blog. Yes, it’s easier to write about being positive and tell you what to do rather than actually being positive and actually doing what I tell you to do. It’s that whole ‘it’s easier to give advice rather than to take it’ kind of thing. But trust me, try these out! Come back when you’re feeling down just to remind yourself that positivity in the workplace can actually happen.
Share your own ways that help you stay positive in our comment section! We’ll be sure to share your thoughts on our Insta, Twitter, and Facebook!
Have a Happy Day!
Tips for Staying Positive Throughout the Workday
Staying positive throughout the workday can be challenging, especially when faced with deadlines, demanding clients, or a heavy workload. However, maintaining a positive mindset is crucial for productivity and overall well-being. One effective tip for staying positive is to start the day with a positive affirmation or mantra. This can help set the tone for the day and provide a mental boost. Additionally, taking short breaks throughout the day to stretch, meditate, or simply step outside for some fresh air can help reset your mindset and improve your mood. Another helpful tip is to surround yourself with positive influences, whether it's through uplifting music, motivational quotes, or supportive colleagues. By consciously choosing to focus on the positive aspects of your work and life, you can cultivate a more optimistic outlook and improve your overall work experience.
The Benefits of Maintaining a Positive Attitude at Work
Maintaining a positive attitude at work offers numerous benefits, both for your professional and personal well-being. A positive mindset can lead to increased productivity, improved problem-solving abilities, and better relationships with colleagues and clients. Additionally, staying positive can reduce stress levels, boost creativity, and enhance overall job satisfaction. By approaching challenges with a positive attitude, you are more likely to persevere through obstacles and achieve your goals. Furthermore, a positive attitude can have a ripple effect, inspiring those around you and creating a more harmonious work environment. Overall, the benefits of staying positive throughout the workday are far-reaching and can significantly impact your success and happiness in the workplace.
Practical Use Cases for Maintaining Positivity at Work
There are numerous practical use cases for maintaining positivity at work, from navigating difficult conversations with clients to managing tight deadlines and high-pressure situations. By staying positive, you can approach these challenges with a clear and focused mindset, leading to more effective communication, problem-solving, and decision-making. Additionally, maintaining a positive attitude can help you bounce back from setbacks and persevere through tough projects. Whether you're working on a team project, leading a meeting, or tackling a complex task, a positive attitude can make a significant difference in your overall performance and outcomes.
Alternatives to Traditional Methods for Staying Positive
While traditional methods for staying positive, such as positive affirmations and mindfulness practices, are effective, there are also alternative approaches that can help maintain a positive mindset throughout the workday. For example, incorporating humor and laughter into your work environment can be a powerful way to boost morale and maintain a positive atmosphere. Additionally, seeking out opportunities for personal growth and skill development can provide a sense of purpose and motivation, contributing to a positive outlook. Exploring new hobbies or interests outside of work can also provide a refreshing break and contribute to overall well-being. By exploring alternative methods for staying positive, you can find the approach that best resonates with you and enhances your work experience.
Tips for Using Positive Affirmations Effectively
Positive affirmations can be a powerful tool for maintaining a positive mindset throughout the workday, but using them effectively requires intention and consistency. When crafting positive affirmations, it's important to use language that resonates with you personally and reflects your goals and values. Additionally, repeating affirmations regularly, especially during challenging moments, can reinforce their impact and influence your mindset. It's also helpful to pair positive affirmations with visualization, imagining the desired outcome as you repeat the affirmation. By incorporating these tips, you can maximize the effectiveness of positive affirmations and harness their potential to maintain a positive attitude at work.
Additional Strategies for Cultivating Positivity in the Workplace
In addition to the aforementioned tips, there are several additional strategies for cultivating positivity in the workplace. One effective approach is to practice gratitude, whether through keeping a gratitude journal or expressing appreciation to colleagues. Gratitude can shift your focus from challenges to blessings, fostering a more positive outlook. Setting realistic goals and celebrating small victories can also contribute to a positive work environment, providing a sense of accomplishment and motivation. Furthermore, seeking out opportunities for professional development and growth can instill a sense of purpose and optimism. By incorporating these additional strategies, you can create a more positive and fulfilling work experience.