The Power of Positivity

“When we are open to new possibilities, we find them.”

– Todd Kashdan

Prompt:

Positive psychology is the scientific study of the factors that enable individuals and communities to thrive. The field is founded on the belief that people want to lead meaningful and fulfilling lives, to cultivate what is best within themselves, and to enhance their experiences of love, work, and play. We believe that it is a significant part of creating a great place to work. When the leaders within an organization embrace the practices of positive psychology, they set the tone for the rest of the the people in the organization. And a more positive work environment is one in which there is more collaboration, less burnout, increased productivity and reduced stress. It is one in which people focus on the potential of what could be instead of dwelling on the shortcomings. This month we hope you take your team through the exercise below to foster more positivity at work! Encourage them to do the 21-Day Gratitude Challenge (worksheet provided below).

Play this Ted Talk by Shawn Achor for your team:

Worksheet:

We are drawn to people who are positive, energetic, kind and helpful. They give us hope, provide reassurance, and inspire positivity within ourselves. Within our lives positivity starts with our thoughts. No matter what happens to us, we get to choose how we think about it. Use the worksheet to guide your team towards more positive thinking!

After playing the video for your team, pass out the attached worksheet for them to fill out. Once you've given the team a few minutes to complete the worksheet, have everyone pull out their phone and text the person they need to thank. We usually put these things off, so hopefully they are grateful for the moment to do it.