So what are the final two vibe shifters in our “5 Ways to Positively Shift the Vibe in Your Office” series?
Vibe Shifter #4: Consistently Show Appreciation towards Others for Their Work
Nothing changes the vibe of a situation faster than letting someone else know that they are valued and appreciated. It is one of the things that we desire the most.
I’d like to take this vibe shifter and look at what happens in childhood.
Think about what motivates a child. If the parent or adult constantly points out all of the things that a child is doing wrong, he or she will eventually begin to feel deflated, unmotivated and uninspired.
Conversely, if the child is reaffirmed with accolades and recognition for their attempts and their successes, the child will blossom before their very eyes.
We are intrinsically wired with the need for validation and the need does not magically disappear at the onset of adulthood.
On the final episode of Oprah Winfrey’s TV show, she said, “I’ve talked to nearly 30,000 people on this show and all 30,000 had one thing in common. They all wanted validation. . . They want to know: ‘Do you see me? Do you hear me? Does what I say mean anything to you?’”
We are no different in our work. We want validation, to be seen, to be appreciated and to simply know that others bear witness to our offerings.
So, begin to consciously take note of other’s efforts, particularly if you operate in a leadership capacity. And don’t just think about it, let them know that you know. Openly acknowledge them and you will definitely start shifting the vibe.
Vibe Shifter #5: Try rituals and activities that will make the day a bit sweeter and build camaraderie
You don’t have to wait for the next team retreat or holiday party to infuse your office with a bit of fun and cheer. Think of small things that you can do to positively shift the office vibe. One of my personal favorites is having a “Question of the Day” or maybe a “Q & A Friday”.
I love asking questions and hearing different perspectives. In my last position, my colleagues always got a good laugh out of my questions and in some way, I’d like to think that they made us feel a bit more connected.
What’s your dream car? What celebrity would you love to hang out with? What’s your favorite movie, food, old TV show, candy, etc.? What’s your favorite thing to do on weekends? If you could have a super power, what would it be and why?
Other ideas.
How do you start meetings? How do you end them? Do you offer funny weekly or monthly awards?
How do you welcome new team members? Is there a funny item that you could start passing off to one another whenever someone does a good job?
Another favorite from my last job was routine and random afternoon dance breaks in the hallway. Anyone, including students, were free to join us.
The possibilities are endless. And with a little imagination, I’m sure you could come up with some powerful vibe shifters of your own.
Take a look at this video. The two news anchors created this entire routine that they do between commercial breaks. It’s fun and it probably keeps them from using their energy to find things to worry and complain about.
So, get in there and start shifting that vibe! And even if you are unable to tangibly track the impact of your efforts, know that a difference is being made.
Quote of the Week: “Fun is Good” — Dr. Seuss
Monica Moody
Monica Moody
