42. Maintain an Upbeat Attitude

You already understand the importance of a positive attitude. That is easy when circumstances are good, but how do you remain positive and upbeat amid negative circumstances? Focus on the performance prompts below, and you will acquire valuable tools that will enable you to always remain positive, no matter what turmoil you are facing.

Performance Prompts

• Determine what type of person you are. Remember it is easier to be around people who maintain a positive attitude.

• Recognize that change is temporary, and focus forward to the end result.

• Keep up your morale. You—and only you—are in charge of you.

• Create a supportive environment. Supporting others will make them want to support you.

• Make others feel valued; it will keep you on a positive track.

• Give a compliment, a word of encouragement, a friendly smile every day.

• Always treat others the way you want to be treated.

• Give your customers extra care during periods of change. Remember that they, too, are experiencing your change. Stay close to them, pay attention, listen carefully, and make customer satisfaction your top priority.

• Caution: avoid being overly cheery during times of turmoil. People may begin to wonder about you! It’s normal to be more reflective while undergoing change.

• Remember to always keep a healthy and realistic perspective. If you look at all sides objectively, you can remain positive and upbeat. It is all in the thoughts, words, and deeds you choose. Choose wisely.

When This Happens ...

Once again, the grapevine is growing. The lunch talk is taking an ugly, negative turn. You are trying hard to turn around the atmosphere by remaining positive. You talk to your lunch buddies objectively. You even worked through some possible scenarios to help them look at the situation realistically. Nothing is working.

Try This

Sometimes people just like to complain. They jump on the train to Negativeville and do not want to get off until they drag everyone around them onto the train. If you tried—but can’t—turn around attitudes toward what is happening, then it is time for another change. If you decide that spending time away from the griping group is the best thing for you, then do it. Jump off that train. Avoid going to lunch with the group. Make other plans. Run errands. Be busy. Remember, especially during the change process, to always do what is best for you. You want to help others through change, but not at the expense of your mental health. If they ask you why you are not going with them anymore, be up front and tell them they are bringing you down too much.

Always avoid taking part in grapevine conversations. Those grapes are almost always sour.