This week’s blog is being written with hand warmers on, a mug of hot coffee with yummy homemade fruit cake. Even though it essentially spring – the cold still remains in the early mornings. These are the things that I love and so feeling supported myself I wanted to share some support just for you. Sometimes at this time of year those winter blues hit and people hibernate or talk only about negative things. Don’t get me wrong, this doesn’t mean we should never have negative interactions. There is research that implies that speaking only positively means no one is willing to confront the real problems and challenges that are holding them back. Sometimes we need to confront a situation to move past it and, as we know, ignoring problems that stare us in the face doesn’t work. Negative interactions are necessary so long as they occur much less frequently than positive interactions.
Positive interactions are essential to a healthy life, positive work environment and individual and team success.
Spring is in the air and here are some tips to stay on top of the cold, cold heart of winter.
- Make sure you get active and get some fresh air! My office is located in the country, so I am blessed with lots of fresh air. For me it is about being in nature. It is this change of scenery that enables me to keep on top of my game. You should use it too! If the heater is going full blast then it’s easy to become sleepy and lethargic. Getting up and heading out into the wind for a revitalizing 15 minute break will clear your head and sharpen your senses in no time at all. Sometimes it is just a walk to get a coffee or tea that makes the difference for me.
- Try to engage each other with more smiles, kind words, encouragement, gratitude, meaningful conversations, honest dialogues and sincere positive interactions. It is through more positive interactions that we create success.
- Phone a friend and have a good old chat about your work. Even better phone a client and see what’s happening for them. It’s so easy to cut ourselves off during the winter months because it’s just too cold to go outside. Yet having a meeting over a cup of coffee could be what you need to find new students, new clients or just get creative.
- Talk to your trainers, your staff. Go and see what’s happening for them. Spend more time praising your employees for the things they do right rather than always focusing on what everyone is doing wrong. They will value the interaction, and you might get some great tips whilst you are there. Years ago as a manager I made a point to personally praise 5 people every week. It made a huge difference and continues in my life today.
- If all of the above fail – As an organisation you might gather all of your employees on a call once a day to share a positive message.
In this spirit when you are finished reading this, I encourage you to go thank someone and let them know how they impacted your life in a positive way. Then make it a habit (just like my coffee).
And remember: “The duty of helping one’s self in the highest sense involves the helping of one’s neighbors.” – Samuel Smiles.
