When You’re Arguing with a Coworker, Listen More Than You Talk…

We’ve all had one of those communication meltdowns where you and your coworker raise your voices or shut down instead of listening to each other. But you won’t be able to find common ground unless you hear the other person out. The next time you and a coworker get into an argument, try listening more than you talk. As you listen, notice: Are you already thinking about your rebuttal? Are you responding with a “yes” followed by an immediate “but”? Or have you already interrupted? Be open to their perspective — and to the chance that you might be wrong.

If you’re not listening because you’re worried about not having the perfect reply, you can always say, “I haven’t thought about it that way before. Can you give me a day or so to think it over?” Very few people will complain about someone listening to what they’ve said and taking a little time to thoughtfully analyze and respond to it.

Prioritize Work That Gives You a Sense of Meaning…

We all want meaningful work, but meaning is rarely handed to us. It’s up to you to connect what you do every day to what you value — and that takes self-reflection and deliberate effort. Keep a journal of your tasks and projects, noting which ones you find deeply satisfying (and which are gratifying only in the short term).

For example, do you feel fulfilled when making presentations to clients? Are you energized when mentoring and coaching junior employees? Then, as much as possible, prioritize work that aligns with your values. If helping others grow is part of your professional identity, make coaching one of your weekly activities. If self-development is a core value, make listening to podcasts or taking an online course a daily ritual. And talk with colleagues about how you’re prioritizing meaningful work. Hearing about others’ efforts will help everyone focus on what matters most.

Time Management May Be the Problem — Not the Solution…

If you’re feeling overwhelmed and stressed, conventional time management strategies are unlikely to help. In fact, constantly trying to improve your efficiency can make things worse. As you become more efficient, you make room for even more tasks and feel even more pressure. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, you are better served by attacking the root cause: the sheer volume of tasks. This means being honest with yourself — and others — about what you can actually commit to.

For tasks that are assigned to you, think in terms of priorities not time. For example, when your boss asks you to take on a new project, responding with “I don’t have time for that” may feel too abrupt. Instead, consider asking: “Where would you like me to prioritize this against x, y, and z?” This accomplishes two things. First, it communicates that your time is limited and you can only commit to completing a certain number of tasks at a time. Second, it places the onus on them to tell you which task is more important, so that you don’t have to worry about failing to meet a critical commitment.

Keeping an Open Mind When Algorithms Control What You Read

Pretty much everything you see online, from search results to your Facebook feed, is generated by algorithms. This invisible code prioritizes information that it thinks you’ll like — which can turn your online experience into an echo chamber of identical opinions. How can you keep algorithms from penning in your worldview? To start with, think about how dangerous it can be to see only things that you already agree with. Be skeptical of the veracity and comprehensiveness of your internet feeds.

Make sure you’re reading widely about issues in the world, and deliberately follow people with views that differ from yours. By expanding what you read and pay attention to, you’ll force the algorithms to broaden their recommendations. And occasionally get off the radar, to see an unfiltered view of the web: Put your browser in incognito mode, or search anonymously using a search engine that doesn’t track you.

Praise Others and Be Happy: The Power of Genuine Appreciation…

In our pursuit of happiness, we often forget one of the simplest yet most effective tools at our disposal – praising others. Not only does it have the power to brighten someone’s day, but it also has a profound impact on our own well-being.

So how to get the best effects of genuine and down-to-earth appreciation, and how it can strengthen relationships and foster a more positive environment?

The Magic of Praise

When we genuinely praise others, we create a ripple effect of positivity. It’s like spreading sunshine on a gloomy day. Complimenting someone on their accomplishments, big or small, can make them feel valued and acknowledged. This, in turn, strengthens the bond between individuals, whether in personal or professional settings.

Genuine Appreciation Matters

While offering praise is essential, it must be authentic and sincere. People can sense when praise is insincere or forced. Authentic appreciation comes from a place of honesty and recognizes the unique qualities or achievements of the person. It’s about acknowledging their efforts and celebrating their successes.

The Power of Down-to-Earth Appreciation

Being down-to-earth in our praise means keeping it simple and genuine. It’s about recognizing the person’s worth without any ulterior motives. A heartfelt “great job” or “you did amazing” can go a long way in making someone’s day. Remember, it’s not about the grand gestures, but the sincerity behind the words.

Self Benefits

Praising others doesn’t just benefit the recipient; it also has a positive impact on you. When you spread positivity, you create a more harmonious and uplifting environment. Additionally, expressing genuine appreciation can boost your own mood and sense of well-being. It fosters a culture of kindness and gratitude that ultimately contributes to your own happiness.

In the end, incorporating genuine and down-to-earth praise into our interactions can be a powerful tool for creating happiness, both for ourselves and others. It strengthens relationships, fosters positivity, and contributes to a more fulfilling and joyful life. So, let’s make it a habit to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of those around us. Remember, a little praise goes a long way!

Invest in Work Relationships That Help You Feel Fulfilled…

Relationships are a big part of being happy at work. Whether your job is demanding or mundane, you’re more likely to feel fulfilled if you regularly spend time with colleagues who support you and help you create a sense of purpose.

Think through your values (who you are) and objectives (what you want to do). Then review your calendar for the coming month, and consider which events, lunches, and coffee meetings bring you closer to your objectives and which don’t. Do you thrive when interacting with people who are upbeat? Analytical? Calm? Ambitious? Are you collaborating with people who share your values? Of course, you can’t control every facet of your schedule, but when possible, prioritize working and spending time with colleagues who help you feel fulfilled — and minimize interactions with people you find depleting.

Keep thinking about how you can make small adjustments to your calendar so that you’re investing in the right relationships.