Do You Look For What’s Wrong or What’s Right?

By Juanita Ecker

One of my favorite shows, “America’s Got Talent,” just ended its season. I have to say, I’ll miss it. I love how the three judges are very kind to the contestants, even if they don’t like the act. They always look for something good to say rather than pointing out all the things that are wrong. There’s so much negativity in the world, it’s nice to have a little positive thinking for a change!

If only the workplace were more like that. It seems like every time we’re presented with a new idea, we fire away with negative statements. We’ve become a corporate culture of naysayers, and the negativity can be toxic.

Of course, that’s not to suggest that we all become “yes men” who blindly agree to everything, even if we secretly have doubts. That’s not healthy either. Case in point: the recent economic meltdown, in which those who pointed out the risks of the mortgage loan process were fired.

But clearly some optimism and open-mindedness is needed in the workplace. Instead of criticism, give constructive criticism. Not every idea or project is a winner, but there might be elements that can work. That’s why companies have teams—so that everyone can collaborate and fine-tune and come up with something that takes the best ideas of the bunch. I feel that sometimes the reason why we are so negative is not necessarily because the idea is bad; it’s because we’re resistant to change. And what kind of attitude is that?

The next time a co-worker pitches an idea, consider it carefully. What are its benefits? What are its flaws? Explain what you like about the idea, even if it’s just its goal, before moving on to what you don’t like. Don’t be abrasive or dismissive. Say, “I agree that we need to reduce our overhead. I just wonder if eliminating overtime will lower our employee morale. Is there another option that is less drastic?” Notice how you essentially panned the idea, but didn’t use the word “no” once.

Optimism in the office isn’t about slapping on a fake smile and hoping for the best. It’s about finding solutions and working together. It’s about weighing the risks, and daring to try anyway.

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