Fall officially started on September 22, which means that the cold winter months are right around the corner. This year winter solstice will begin on December 21st and with that in mind, we should start thinking about winter safety now. As the cold weather approaches...
Positivity in the Workplace at PIC
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Head Start / Early Head Start FAQs The Private Industry Council discusses frequently asked questions for Head Start and Early Head Start students. Private Industry Council operates the Head Start / Early Head Start program for Beaver and Fayette Counties in the...
…Listen Actively…
Active listening is a powerful tool for improving communication and deepening relationships. When we listen actively, we are fully present in the moment, giving full attention to the other person and seeking to understand their perspective. To practice active listening, try the following:
- Put away distractions like phones and computers
- Make eye contact and use body language to show you are engaged
- Repeat back what you’ve heard to confirm understanding
- Avoid interrupting or judging the thoughts and feelings of others
…Show Appreciation…
Expressing gratitude and appreciation is a simple but effective way to strengthen relationships and build trust. When we show appreciation, we are acknowledging the other person’s value and contributions to our life. Some ways to show appreciation include:
- Saying “thank you” for something specific
- Complimenting strengths and accomplishments
- Doing something thoughtful or kind for the other person
- Acknowledging efforts or sacrifices
…Practice Forgiveness…
Conflict and hurt feelings are inevitable in any relationship. But learning to forgive can help you to move past them and strengthen your connection with the other person. Forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting or condoning hurtful behavior, but it does mean choosing to let go of resentment and bitterness. Some tips for practicing forgiveness include:
- Express feelings in a calm, constructive way
- Acknowledge the other person’s perspective and feelings
- Make a commitment to move forward and build trust
- Let go of the need to be right or have the last word
…Neutralize Negativity…
Negativity is sometimes due to physiological reasons- being tired, hungry, or thirsty. When we generally do not feel well, we sometimes react in negative ways. Another source of negativity can be when our expectations are not met. We get angry when what we think should happen doesn’t, or when something does happen that we think shouldn’t.
Try to neutralize negativity in these ways:
- Keep quiet when others are complaining, gossiping, criticizing, and blaming
- Contribute only to the positive- smile, make humorous (non-cutting) remarks, show gratefulness
- Think about realistic and unrealistic expectations