How does one cultivate a positive attitude?

Think before you speakBefore you address anything with your co-workers, ask yourself these three things:

Is it true? Is it harmful? Is it necessary?

By doing this you give yourself enough time to change your initial (possibly) negative view on the subject matter. This approach will allow you to choose your battles wisely and conserve energy in the long run.

Count before you actIn addition to the above mentioned approach, simply count to 1000. I know. Who’s got time for that, right? Counting will distract you and give you plenty of time to control your anger before it controls you.

Don’t take it personallySimple as that! Before you run, venting to the next person how badly you have been treated, consider any criticism as ways to improve your performance. When given corrective information, remember that no one can take away your value as a person, unless you let it.

Laugh it offCultivate a sense of (appropriate) humor. When time allows (during work breaks) laugh at funny e-mails, interact with your co-workers in a positive way and laugh at yourself if things don’t go 100% and tell yourself that it can only get better. When appropriate, include the people that you are dealing with and make them smile with your charming comments, it will bring a smile to you too.

Focus on the positiveSounds too simple, you might say. But can you do it? Speaking from years of dealing with all kinds of people I have encountered maybe a handful of individuals that were able to do it. This approach seems so simple yet we forget and get caught up in our daily stresses that we start zeroing in on the negatives. Especially during work, if your day feels like 5 Mondays combined and nothing wants to go your way, stop, and remind yourself of the fact that you are employed and (overall) healthy. Step away from your desk and look at something beautiful to bring yourself to a positive state of mind. For some practicing 5-Minute meditation has helped tremendously as well.

Practice empathy Learn to truly listen, understand and actively recognize other people’s emotions. Empathy will make you a wonderful person that people enjoy talking to. Without judgment you can relate to others that come to you for guidance and advice, in return allowing you to build meaningful relationships.

Accept changeDon’t dwell on how things have been before and embrace change, the only permanent component in life. The sooner you let go of your resistance to change the more positive / easier your life will be and the sooner you can reward yourself with new insights/ knowledge / experiences.

-By Dr. Mimi