Don’t let negativity get on your nerves

Harrish Sairaman

In arithmetic, negative into negative equals positive. But that's just in arithmetic. In the real world, if you try to multiply negativity with some more negativity, the result will just be more negativity. And a negative result is always conflicting with one's desired objectives. 

Every employee in an organisation, at some point of time or another, breathes in the air of negativity that surrounds the workplace. That is dangerous. A negative working atmosphere is made by negative employees, or to be precise, the negative mind-set of employees. Now, all the employees may not be on the same 'negative wavelength'. Some are more pessimistic than others and they are the ones that you need to learn to deal with. In fact, you just need to deal with the ones who affect you, don't make it a personal target to change everyone. Here are  some tips on how to deal with negativity at one's workplace: 

Self awareness

Humans have the capacity to logically reason things out. We can think, analyse and introspect. We can make undertake evaluations. We can make sound decisions. Self-awareness is the key. When combating negativity at your workplace, figure people out. If you are aware, it's easy to make calculated deductions about people. In a self-aware state of mind, even if the negative people try to poison you with their negativity, you will be a step ahead of them and won't be susceptible to their frail attempts. Also, instead of judging or evaluating them as negative people, you will be able to look at their behaviour from a different perspective. Ask yourself, why are they negative, what could be the history, what could be the reason, what are they focusing on that makes them the way they are and now you will be viewing the issue from a different dimension. Thus, one of the best ways to tackle negativity at one's workplace is by adopting a self-aware state of mind at all times.

Avoidance

Now many people will say that, avoiding is synonymous with running. Forget them. Avoiding is a coping mechanism. It works really well for some people and definitely some situations. When you can pinpoint the sources of negativity within your team/workforce, make a conscious effort to avoid those sources. Being in contact with such people will just dampen your spirits. If you get into an argument with a person with a negative outlook who happens to disapprove of your thoughts, if that person is not important why waste your time in even trying to convince or argue. Just move on. Only put in your efforts wherever needed. If you enter all negativity, you will unnecessarily make t a part of your Karma!

Take it as a challenge

Many times, you will come across instances wherein you face difficulties on account of the negative vibes in the office or because of some pessimistic colleague of yours. Instead of letting this negativity hit your morale head-on, try to look at the task that's posed by this negativity as a challenge. Use negativity as a motivator to better yourself. Always remember, if you are able to handle this negativity it is a reflection of your own inner strength. Remember, your life's challenges make you tough, it just depends on the way you look at them. So, for the negatives that you can't avoid, look at them as an opportunity to make yourself stronger. 

Strive to be influential

An influential person in the workplace is the one who knows how to get his way. Being an influential person is always beneficial. Influencing skills are among the most important skills in today's world. Constantly keep upgrading your knowledge and skill in this area through books, videos and exploration. Do not assume that 'all will be taught at work' you have to go beyond in learning and yes, work and home is a place where you need to implement your learning for sure.

Two things that you should keep in mind always

• Don't make premature judgements/decisions. 
• Never run away from the problem.

If you can follow these simple principles, negativity will just be another fly that you swat away.

Find a  role model

At your workplace itself, look for a person who you think you can look up to. Once you have found someone, use the power that they have on you positively. Let them be your safety net. An ideal role model should be able to give you sound advice to deal with crisis. 

— The writer is a noted motivational speaker