Negativity Rewired: Transform Your Workplace Mindset. Negativity can be a powerful force, and it can be difficult to overcome when it’s present in your workplace. It can lead to low morale, decreased productivity, and an overall negative work environment. However, with the right mindset and a few key strategies, it’s possible to rewire your brain and transform your workplace experience.
When I worked in the pharmaceutical industry we had a lot of turnover with managers. I will never forget having the worst manager who turned into my best friend. I remember struggling with negativity in the workplace for months when this new manager was hired for our district. She was young, egotistical, and inexperienced.
At the time, I was in a high position and highly respected within our district. In addition to being a high achiever and leader when we didn’t have a manager for a while. I knew our team members well enough to see how the negativity and hostility became an issue in the beginning.
My new manager was a lot to handle. I remember most days I would be crying hysterically not wanting to go to work. I just wanted to quit. The problem was, I loved my job!!! One day I decided instead of stressing and constantly being in the negative mindset which affected my work, my relationships with colleagues, and my overall well-being. I decided I would speak up and let her know exactly how stressed I was feeling and how her negativity was affecting me and other team members.
We then talked about how I felt we refocus on how we can work positively together and make our district number one. We discussed strategies for shifting the mindset of our team members and bringing in more positivity by focusing on solutions rather than problems and taking breaks to recharge and refocus.
Her relationships with me and other colleagues improved over time and we had become great friends.
She left after a year, but at least I know that I was able to help turn our environment into a more thriving one with a few other strategies I used besides communication.
If you’re struggling with negativity in the workplace, here are some strategies you can use to rewire your brain and transform your experience like I did mine:
- Practice gratitude: One of the most powerful ways to rewire your brain is to practice gratitude. Take a few minutes each day to reflect on the things you’re grateful for in your job. This could be anything from the people you work with to the skills you’re developing. Focusing on these positive aspects will help you shift your mindset and rewire your brain for positivity.
- Focus on solutions: It’s easy to get caught up in the problems and challenges of your job, but dwelling on them can lead to negativity and frustration. Instead, focus on solutions. When you encounter a problem, think about what you can do to solve it. This shift in mindset can help you rewire your brain to be more solution-focused and less focused on the negative.
- Take breaks: Taking breaks is important for your overall well-being, but it’s also important for rewiring your brain. When you take a break, you give your brain a chance to recharge and refocus. This can help you approach your work with a fresh perspective and a more positive mindset.
- Surround yourself with positivity: Your environment can have a big impact on your mindset. Surround yourself with positive people, positive messages, and positive imagery. This could be as simple as putting up a motivational quote on your desk or listening to uplifting music during your workday.
- Cultivate a growth mindset: A growth mindset is the belief that you can develop your skills and abilities over time. When you have a growth mindset, you’re more likely to approach challenges with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn. This can help you rewire your brain to be more focused on growth and development, rather than negativity and frustration.
It is always helpful to identify your negative thought patterns. Pay attention to the thoughts that run through your mind when you’re feeling negative or frustrated because if you don’t you will get anxious and it can take a huge toll on your mental well-being.
Ask yourself if these thoughts are really true. Then, try to reframe these thoughts in a more positive light.
For example, when things go wrong many people find themselves thinking “I hate my job.” Is this you?
Challenge this thought by asking yourself if it’s really true is important. If it helps write it down. That is what I did.
There may be things about your job that you don’t enjoy, but there are also things that you do enjoy. Focus on the things you enjoy to help rewire your brain for positivity.
For me it was important to take care of myself when I was in these negative work situations. It can help you rewire your brain by reducing stress and increasing feelings of well-being. This could include things like exercise, getting enough sleep, practicing mindfulness, and spending time with friends and family.
Rewiring your brain is a process, and it’s not always easy. You may have setbacks, but that’s okay. Keep focusing on the positive aspects of your job, and keep practicing these strategies. You can achieve a more positive work environment and if you cannot due to a very toxic environment you may be challenged to find a place that will be better for you in the long run. Connect with Dipal: http://linktr.ee/dipalshah