9 ways to be positive at work

A positive attitude is important because it can rub off on everyone else – Amy Finland.  A bad attitude is infectious likewise a positive attitude. Studies have revealed that a positive attitude at work creates positivity and brings about progress. Apart from discussing 9 ways to be positive at work, this article will also discuss how to be productive at work. 

Here are some ways to maintain a positive attitude in the workplace:

1. Create a daily routine.

Routines give us a good fall-back structure. Have a breakdown of how you want your day to be.  It allows you to plan ahead of the day and gives you direction. A morning routine is especially good since most people are usually more active and alert in the morning. People usually get tired at noon or towards the closing period. It is advisable you get the most important work done first, take breaks at the right time then, leave the less tedious work for the last hour. You need to end each day by getting prepared for the next. Try to get apps like notepad, sticky notes, Trello, and so on to help you jot down and track some important things.

2. Be friendly and polite to your co-workers.

It is easier to work or relate well with your friends rather than your enemies. Why not make your co-workers your friends? Mingle well with your co-workers including those you are superior to.  Interact well with your colleagues without being rude. Respect is reciprocal. Treat everyone with respect. You don’t expect respect from someone you were rude to. Do not use demeaning or abusive words on your colleagues that would lead to quarrel.

3. Add value to yourself.

Try as much as you can to acquire new skills and learn how to be creative at work in Nigeria. You can decide to take some online courses or learn something different. No knowledge is wasted. By doing that you would be happy with yourself and it would increase your performance at work. Always demonstrate your value at work. If you are doing well at work, the company would also progress and everyone would be better off. It’s a win-win for everybody.  It’s a circle of goodness.

4. Control your emotions.

It could be a difficult task but, you have to be totally in charge of your emotions. Your emotional quotient has to be high to increase positivity at work. When you are angry, guide your temper. Some customers or co-workers could influence leaving your job, just stay calm and handle the situation with maturity.  In fact, some bosses could be very difficult to work with. Just take a deep breath and be in charge of the situation. Irrespective of how skilled you are, your performance would also be measured based on your relationship with your colleagues. Remember, it’s not easy to get a job in Nigeria.

5. Be optimistic.

Being optimistic means taking a favorable view of events or conditions and expecting the most favorable outcome. Always view things from the brighter side.  When negative thoughts come, or people appear to be acting poorly, look for the positive in them. No matter how terrible someone is, try to find the good side in him/her. If you cannot tolerate someone, then avoid him/her.

6. Balance your lifestyle.

Strike a balance between your work and every sphere of your life which includes your family, friends, health, religion, education, and so on. Spend quality time with your loved ones and do things you love to do during your leisure time. If you don’t have a life aside from your work, you would end up getting bored and unhappy. Find time to hang out with your friends and family. It would even help you to release work tension and stress.

7. Take breaks.

All work no play makes jack a dull boy. Do not overwork yourself. It’s okay to take a leave or even go on vacation. It makes you rest well and recharge yourself. That can even lighten your mood and increase your productivity at work.

8. Practice gratitude.

Be mindful of all the things you’re thankful for. Appreciate good people and good things around you. Focusing on the good in both your work and personal spheres will make you react more patiently and positively to stressful situations. It can be helpful to write down a list of the things you are most thankful for on a daily or weekly basis. Sometimes, it might look like you are not doing enough or your colleagues are achieving more than you, just know that you would make it too. Don’t be envious.

9. Enjoy yourself at work.

It’s not every time you take things too seriously or too personally. Don’t be too uptight or rigid.  Interact well with your colleagues. You can spice up your workspace by putting things that make you happy such as your loved ones’ photos. You can even listen to music or watch something to lighten your mood during your leisure time. Have fun. Life is not hard.

Adenike Adelana