Negativity is infectious.
The workplace can be a prime example for a negative outlook on life,an outlook that can have a profound effect on performance and output.
There can be one single `Jonah` who’s cup is always half full ,thats all it will take to lower the morale of colleagues.
Negativity has many facets,bitterness,jealousy,low self esteem,envy,to name but a few.
Just one negative influence can dramatically effect the mood of the masses.
Take a normal day at a workplace for example
Just picture the staff beavering away ,carrying out their day to day routines.The mood is cheerful and optimistic.
Then the `Jonah` clocks on.The staff are aware of this persons disposition,but as well as being aware they are wary.
Before we know the atmosphere has changed,the defenses are up,the hostility sets in.
The `Jonah` cannot be trusted with any staff gossip,or be privy to any private conversation.Therefore the conversational tone becomes subdued.
Instead of the optimistic outlook,a negativity has superseded it.
`Jonah` is busy doom mongering,spreading the gospel,the other workers feel they have to voice their opinions,hence the chatter turns tone.No longer are we talking about day to day events,we are condemning our workplace,our workmates,and our seniors.
Naturally this is only a very small insight of how harmful negativity can be.
In family life it can prevent a family from functioning successfully.
Children are easily affected by constant downbeat conversation,they in turn become downbeat,as they follow their role models.The mold is set and an unhappy ,unsociable childhood can follow.
The fight then ensues,the pessimist versus the optimist.
Constant optimism can be a little exhausting,but the majority of us manage to get the balance right,which is good for our well being.
A good deal can be gained towards understanding life and its idiosyncrasies by reading `Desiderata` by Max Ehrmann,a timeless piece of good advice .
“With all its shams ,drudgery, and broke dreams,
It is still a beautiful world,
Be cheerful.Strive to be happy.
Maybe this should be the mantra for the negative.
