Attitude: It’s Everything

Introduction

An individual’s attitude can affect the overall morale of the whole staff and the tone of the workplace.

Research indicates that those with positive attitudes have lower stress levels, less sickness and live longer. As well as improving the environment for colleagues, an optimistic teacher helps students understand the importance of attitude in realizing one’s dreams and potential. Negativity causes conflict and tension in the workplace.

Dealing with Negative Comments

The first step towards resolution is to identify these behaviours; the second is to talk about them and work together to create a healthy and pleasant work environment.

• If negative comments are prevalent at your workplace, the issue could be raised at a staff meeting and discussed as being everyone’s problem.
  
• As an individual, try to turn negative comments into positive ones. Use humour if possible.
  
• Ask the person who makes a negative comment if there is something you can do to help.
  Acknowledge the person’s feelings while, at the same time, offering something positive to change the focus of the comment.
  
• Saying nothing or responding with another negative statement will only perpetuate and reinforce negativity, bad feelings, and tension among the staff.
  
• Assume the best in others. Look for the positive side of a situation. Try to find common ground to build to a positive outcome.
  
• Actions speak louder than words. Don’t just think or talk about a problem, do something about it.
  
• Simplify your life. Get rid of unhealthy relationships and maintain contact with positive people.
  
• Set reasonable tasks, goals, and expectations for yourself. Celebrate your accomplishments.
  
• Allow yourself to make mistakes.
  
• Laugh often with others and at yourself.
  
• Don’t hesitate to forgive, forget, and move ahead.
  
• Celebrate the successes of others as much as your own.
  
• Be a good listener when a colleague is experiencing difficulty.
  
• Avoid listening to or participating in negative talk about a colleague.
  
• Share the work fairly in the school among the staff.
  
• Be kind to each other. Empathize when necessary.

From After the Chalkdust Settles, published by ETFO.

Conclusion

We cannot make other people act in certain ways, but we can make choices regarding our attitude to a situation.  A positive attitude can make each day better, and keep us in good health for our entire lives.

Members are advised to consult  Professional Relations staff  in Protective Services at 416- 962-3836 or 1-888-838-3836 for additional advice.