Workers stress out, worry about whether they are good enough, and suffer anxiety over work-related issues. Funny how changing your outlook on life can make a huge difference.
(Photo Credit: University of Salford/Flickr)
Positive Psychology
Many forms of talk therapy encourage us to focus on our problems. By talking about our issues, we can work through them, solve some of our problems, and feel better about life.
Martin Seligman, the father of “positive psychology,” believed that thinking about the negative was detrimental, and that the way to happiness was to pay attention to the things that make us happy, not the things we find depressing.
It sounds simplistic, but there is some value to it. Psychology Today reports that some Fortune 500 companies use positive psychology techniques as management tools. Workers may find using positive psychology at work helps alleviate stress and anxiety, and also helps them perform better at their jobs.
Focus on Skills, Not Weaknesses
Maybe you are skilled at organization but not great at directing people. Instead of stressing about how you have to tell group members what to do, recognize that you are the best person in the office to organize the roles in a project. Find confidence in your organizational skills, and ask for help with making speeches and directing others.
By focusing on what you are good at, you will build confidence in yourself that will be noticed by others. You will also feel better about yourself, and likely will perform better at your job.
Focus on the Positive in Others
Recognizing and appreciating what others have to offer is another aspect of positive psychology that is especially helpful in the workplace. Instead of competing with co-workers, or feeling inferior, recognize that their skills and talents are valuable. For example, the loud-mouth in the office may be a good person to help you direct others in the group project that you are organizing.
In any case, appreciating the good in others tends to encourage good working relationships and a less stressful work environment.
Tell Us What You Think
What are your strongest skills? We want to hear from you! Leave a comment or join the discussion on Twitter.
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