Experiencing negativity in the workplace can be challenging. It can become distracting and pull focus away from goals and responsibilities, or create so much drama in its wake that the whole working environment becomes toxic. Other than avoiding these toxic colleagues completely, is there anything else that can be done? There are situations when different people have to work together and it can be mutually harmful if such negativity isn’t handled appropriately and professionally.
EMBRACE POSITIVITY AND ENCOURAGE IT IN OTHERS
We all know the mean-spirited and highly-competitive colleagues can be the trickiest to work with, especially when they are constantly putting people down in order to feel better about the job at hand. The way to counter this is not to have a difficult and awkward confrontation, but instead channel good thoughts and embrace positivity in the self. Remember that not everyone has the same perspectives or opinions, so there is never any singular right answer to a problem. The workplace is for people to learn and grow together, so just be positive.
BE FIRM IN DRAWING PERSONAL BOUNDARIES
Put a feet down if things get too hard between conversations with these people. If their negativity is affecting the job, then one has to be firm and draw boundaries as to how much of this negativity can be allowed in the workplace. Do not allow it to become personal as it will further complicate things and let the matter live on for longer than appropriate. If one can keep cool, calm and sitting down, then the problem will only limit itself to the professional space and be dealt with properly.
POWER CHECK YOURSELF TO KEEP EVERYTHING IN ORDER
One of the most common traits of negative people is their constant habit of doubting everyone’s abilities. This will cause people to overthink their work choices and delay decisions, resulting in tardiness or excuses about work that cannot be completed with confidence. The fact is that everyone has complete power over themselves and how they react to negativity, so as long as the individual is collected and believes in himself or herself, all decisions ultimately weigh and matter only to the self.