Those days. The Mondays. Perhaps even Tuesdays or Wednesdays, surely, not Fridays, but hey, sometimes! We can’t always be sure when stress from our personal lives or our work environment will affect our workday. These moods do not always stem from outside interference; sometimes the source is work itself. A shift full of frustration with a task or project can not only impede performance, but it also affects our relationships with our co-workers. Attitude is everything; it can make or break a day, and that’s why it is good to realize and assess the emotions you are feeling and turn them around internally. As cliché as it may sound, our emotions carry weight and vibration, and there is truth behind the belief that everything is energy. The energy you share affects others.

Observing Groups In & Out of the Workplace

I’ve noticed that in groups, people either act on positive or negative energies as a whole. This observation is not merely some form of mysticism but is based on various forms of psychology, sociology, and science. People will either be drawn in or repelled by this energy. A positive accomplishment can lift the general outlook of the entire group and create a pay-it-forward type of mentality. The positivity of the group will, therefore, support the team as a whole including its ideas, accomplishments, and growth. On the other side of the spectrum; a negative attitude also spreads, but in most cases, it's more like an infection from one group to another. Eventually, the negative reactions and thoughts overwhelm the positives. This breakdown, in turn, destroys and isolates the infected individuals within the collective group.

Negative energy in the workplace can have an effect not only on yourself but that of the morale, camaraderie, and productivity of the workplace. If you think about it, the workweek makes up a large percentage of our time. Therefore, why not try to create an environment in which positive energy is in a perpetual motion allowing it to come back to you?

Often we tend to carry our troubles with us, and as difficult as it is to leave them at the door, we need to learn to let go. These people we're surrounded by are not only our co-workers but our friends, and they come with their anxieties and joys. It’s simply toxic to dwell on fears and problems that we cannot deal with at the time. The task of turning it around can be as simple as distracting yourself from yourself. Besides, you should be focusing on your work, right? ;)

Zen Out

I center myself by letting these negative thoughts pass through my conscious mind and taking a few deep cleansing breaths. It's like taking a glass of water from the river. At first, it may be swirling and diluted but given a little time it will settle, and you will find clarity. If that doesn’t work compliment a fellow co-worker. Heck, give a high five! Laugh a little; this will instantly change the energy as it will be tangible. And laughter is the best medicine, right?

Lastly, try to put it into focus by concentrating on something good. Treat yourself, be kind to yourself and in turn, you will thank yourself. Set personal and group goals, work towards a vacation or buy something thoughtful for someone. Not only will you be happier, but it will perpetuate a reciprocal positive work environment. Find a way to find your Zen.

Peace and prosperity to you! - Dave P.