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30 Quick Fixes for Overcoming Individual and Team Negativity

  "Recognize the negativity trigger points.

1. Take a timeout.
2. Provide an attitude checkup.
3. Encourage laughter or joke logs.
4. Use the tape recorder.
5. Keep thoughts in the present.
6. Have a favorite saying.
7. Set a time limit for negativity.
8. Set ground rules.
9. See the bigger picture.
10. Look at quality criticism as a plus.
11. Collect funny objects.
12. Reenergize with IQT.
13. Use flipside thinking.
14. Stop the thought!
15. Wear a rubber band and snap away the negativity.
16. Use 3, 2, 1…1, 2, 3.
17. Resolve conflicts - the win-win approach.
18. Surround yourself with optimistic people.
19. Be your own best friend.
20. Play your winners.
21. Provide a new opportunity or skill.
22. Do something to help others.
23. Take the AAA approach.
24. Reward yourself for being positive.
25. Lock in the negativity at work.
26. Assign numbers to certain words.
27. Use the standing ovation.
28. Take some pictures.
29. Buy some whips (Topchik, 2001, pp. 45-46)."

Reference:  Topchik, G.S. (2001).  Managing workplace negativity.  New York:  AMACOM.

What quick fixes can you think of to combat negativity in your organization?

Managing Workplace Negativity is available on loan from the Ohio State University Leadership Center.  To borrow this resource or any other resource, please go to the resource search page http://164.107.48.88/winnebago/index.asp?lib=???

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Created: 2008-04-03, Updated: 2009-01-09