By Dr Natalie Flatt, Director
During the week, I presented to a set of amazing and mindfully connected managers (which is always so encouraging) on a set of topics which can enhance workplace productivity. At the end of the workshop, I asked them which half of the workshop was the most they got out of the day. Thinking about differing HR software to measure contextual performance? The chance to save money and hours with looking at real time performance outcomes? No. And it wasn’t even the first section that grabbed them about recognising a low resilient workplace. It was the need to remind themselves to practice happiness and gratitude that struck the cord.
It struck me that the power of self observation and an ’it starts with you’ attitude towards overall team change gives more impact than I’ve given it credit for. Now this team was quite emotionally connected. When given an Emotional Intelligence test, they said the outcomes didn’t surprise them with many of them highlighting the need to watch their levels of self regulation in certain situations. It was the HOW that got them stuck. We live in a society where it is so fast paced, managers have to push aside their ‘negative’ feelings without any recognition and get on with their day. This causes a build up and is one main factor with leads to a disconnection with thoughts, feelings, and actions and is a major variable in boundaries, conflict and burnout.
So what can we do to cultivate self gratitude? Let’s just start with 3 things –
- Take time each day to acknowledge one to three good things you experienced that day and one to three successes every day. This provides you a detailed record you can then go back and review whenever you need a reminder of your accomplishments.
- Write a 2 minute email praising someone you know. Our brains become addicted to feeling good by making others feel good. Further, it fosters our sense of empowerment by changing the reality of what we see around us.
- Do 15 minutes of a fun cardio activity, like gardening or walking the dog or holding a walking meeting, every day. The effects of daily cardio can be as effective as taking an antidepressant along with proving opportunity to socialise.
So I dare you to try this for 21 days. Positive people are 31% more productive. Only you will be able to unlock a new way of seeing situations. See this success follow you.
