Keys to a Positive Work Environment
Keep your employees informed – The more information your employees receive, the less they assume; and... the less chance for miscommunication and useless rumors and gossip.
- Transparency – Don’t hide things. If the goal is to work as a team, access to information is essential to success.
- Honesty – Information that you pass on to your employees must be true. 100% of the time!
Balance criticism with praise. – Correcting an employee’s mistakes is necessary and deciding on disciplinary action is appropriate, but also understand that people need to hear the good things they have done as well. People are motivated when they hear at least two praises for every criticism.
Public vs. Private - Praise in public, and more important...criticize in private.
Don’t over-work – Emphasize the importance of getting work done on time, meeting deadlines, and being productive. However, don’t forget the human factor. Unexpected circumstances occasionally arise and flexibility and caring build loyalty.
Learn to Laugh – Laughter is good for you. Remember to smile. Tell an appropriate funny joke here and there. Remember, that if you are poking fun at someone, it needs to be yourself. We spend way too much time at work to not enjoy the people we have around us.

8 Ways to Stay Positive at Work
1. Before you speak, ask yourself three things: Is it true? Is it harmful? Is it necessary? Choose your battles wisely!

2. Count to 1000. Yes, 1000. Control your anger before it controls you.

3. See criticism as an opportunity to improve. Don’t take it personally. Always remember that it doesn’t take away your value as a person. Take criticism as corrective information that will get you back on track on your journey to success. It’s all about perspective.

4. Cultivate a sense of humor. Humor makes difficult tasks easier, makes workdays go faster, creates closer relationships, and relieves stress. Remember to keep your humor appropriate and if in doubt, cut it out!

5. Focus on the good daily. The choice is ultimately yours to see the positive or the negative in each situation. Stop yourself when you start thinking negatively and choose to see the bright side of situations.

6. Practice empathy. Refining your listening skills is key to developing empathy. Practice by taking the time to sit down and really listen to someone who has come to you for guidance. Remember to see it through with the eyes of another, hear it with the ears of another, and feel it with the heart of another.

7. Open your mind to changes. Change is the only permanent thing in life, so just accept it. Let go of the need to control and learn to trust your organization.

8. Last, but certainly not least, spread a smile! Try it. Walk up to someone at work,give a big smile and see how they will smile back!

“Negativity Program” - Dr. Mimi Hull