My Mom regularly reminded us kids, “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.” Once we expressed our feelings, we were done. We were not permitted to “admire the problem”.
Instead, we were expected to seek out the positive, search for a solution, or “ignore him and he will stop”. By the way, does that actually work? I think that phrase may have been code for, “I’m not intervening, nor am I interested in listening to you two bicker any more.” I’m not sure, but I think so. Anyway …
Sometimes we find ourselves in situations where it is not within our power to ignore the aggravation. You may be on a team with someone who annoys you. You may find yourself working in close proximity to someone who gets under your skin.
The constant presence prevents you from escaping or ignoring the problem. If you catch yourself saying, “I can’t work with him”, or, “I can’t think with her around”, then you are right. You can’t.
“Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you are right.”
– Henry Ford
A bad attitude negatively impacts your productivity. Admiring the problem prevents you from seeking solutions and can impact your overall health as your stress level increases.
Since increased stress often manifests itself in heightened anxiety in my system, I prefer my Mom’s option to focus on the positive. I find that if I surround myself with beautiful things, pretty lights, and scented candles (sometimes, beautiful shoes help, too), I am more inclined to experience peace, and as a result I act more positively toward others and am more productive in my endeavors.
I am on a mission to create a positive environment to inspire a positive mind.
In the workplace, we often do not have control over the lighting, and candles are not popular with the Fire Marshall. We may, however, have a locker, a desk, a cubicle, or an office.
My workspace includes an office with a desk, some cabinets, and a small meeting table. My goal is to make my work environment so pretty and uplifting that the positives drown out the annoyances (well, most of the time).
Step one: Inspiring, Motivational Art
I purchased frames and sought out printable quotes that featured black script on a white background. Planning to fill two frames, I wanted the pieces to complement each other while featuring a neutral presence.
First, I chose an Emily Dickinson quote to remind me to focus on solutions. It reads, “I dwell in possibility.”
Next, I selected a quote to remind me to be my own kind of wonderful, and not to focus on the efforts of others. (Sometimes I feel resentful towards others I perceive to work far less diligently than I do.) This one reads, “A flower does not think of competing with the flower next to it. It just blooms.”
Finally, I created a simple phrase for a frame featuring a clip. This frame is on my desk in my field of view, reminding me to choose to be positive. The phrase reads, “Today I Choose Joy”, because every day I have a choice regarding my attitude.
Free Printable Art for you!
What do you think of my initial efforts to create a positive work environment?
Download the “Today I Choose Joy” print to promote a positive attitude in your space.
For step two, I will put energies into the overall ambience of my workspace. If I work in a lovely environment, I will be happy all the time, right? I will be a productive ray of sunshine. Everyone will be fortunate to be in the presence of my emanating positivity. Yes, I believe so.
If you find yourself drawn to the creative works found in Enchanted Prints Etsy Shop, you may wish to follow the artist’s blog, Elegance & Enchantment. Michelle sends out a motivational printable every Monday to those who subscribe to her newsletter.
* I share this information with you for the love of fonts and beautiful wall art. I have nothing to gain from Michelle selling more prints or earning more newsletter subscribers. She could not pick me out in a room full of Denise’s. Happy day to you!
What strategies do you use to keep yourself positive and productive?
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I love your attitude (and the prints). I too find my environment deeply affects my mood and my productivity. I enjoy drawing/doodling, and I have surrounded my workspace with some of my favorite doodles. It makes me smile and helps me find peace in stressful moments. It may not solve all my problems, but it definitely helps. Thank you for reminding me that I can choose joy all times.
Thanks, Amy. I find that if I actively seek the positive, rather than dwell on the negative, it helps when times are stressful. I’m excited to take further steps towards workspace beautification. Stay tuned!
Having a beautiful and inspiring workspace has always been a big priority to me – if my desk area is cluttered, messy, or just generally unpleasant to work in, I know I’m not getting anything productive done! Thanks for the inspiration :)
xo,
Haley
Absolutely, Haley! I am the master of finding things that need straightening so I can then relax and get to work. Thanks for reading.