Office behavior

Dear Friends,

Nowadays, I meet most of my clients in my home office and work at my own desk, but that hasn't always been the case. I have spent plenty of workdays in the company of coworkers and bosses, so I know just how good or how strained the workplace can be.

Most of us spend many of our waking hours in the workplace. Consequently, this environment plays a big part in our life and can affect us in negative ways, especially if we find ourselves surrounded by difficult, negative, or emotionally draining coworkers.

Long ago I learned how to turn my work environment into a positive place that I enjoyed, surrounded by people I liked working with. It definitely took some time and energy, but it made all the difference, and I'd like to share what I know with you, so you can make the best of your own work environment.

In the end, your experience on the job depends largely upon how you choose to respond to the people and events around you. Start by noting how you feel during your interactions with coworkers. You may need to look at your own behavior to see if you might be contributing to the problem.

Are you allowing yourself to be sucked into gossip, chronic complaining, and negative conversation? If so, it's time to be the one to stop the flow, and you can do that by speaking up. When such conversations begin, a comment such as, "This isn't a conversation I feel comfortable with" can shut down gossip without implying judgment on your part. If that approach doesn't work, you can always call attention to the adverse behavior with the responsible party or parties. While this action may not thrill your negative coworkers, they will get the message that you don't want to partake in such conversations.

Another approach is to turn negative conversations around by subtly changing the subject to something more positive and resourceful. In addition, whenever you see more positive behavior going on around you, give it a little praise. A few kind words can shift energy and build positive relationships.

What will eventually happen is that the more unpleasant coworkers will not darken your office door as often, and you will have become an example of positive behavior that can help others make changes themselves.

Friends, improving your work experience may take some effort and leadership on your part, along with time and determination, but the payoff will be a happier and healthier work environment, which translates to a happier and healthier you.

Best wishes for an active and positive week ahead!