How to Stay Positive and Focused in Uncertain Times

Introduction
Mark Spiehler
Vice President, Customer Service and Rating/Distribution Services
Atlas Van Lines, Inc.

Presenter
Sarita Maybin
Professional Speaker

"If you can't say something nice..." intoned Sarita, and everyone chimed in to complete the adage. But how, she asked, do you cope in the work place when the people around you don't observe this socially accepted wisdom? Or when a situation begs for candor?

Business people, Sarita acknowledged, find it difficult to express frustrations because "we've not been trained to do it." A self-proclaimed "army brat," she said the experience of moving frequently taught her there are negative people wherever you go. The trick is to know how to deal with them so you are not adversely affected.

Sarita led her audience through a series of exercises that helped each see ways to thrive on change and stay positive. Citing author Martin Seligman, she testified that optimism can be learned. Her prescription for an immunity to negativity:

1. Don't take it personally.
2. Remember the situation is not permanent.
3. Keep the "big picture" in mind.

Sarita highlighted the value of humor as the number one coping strategy for stress in the workplace. She demonstrated the role of "resilience resources" and "motivators for passion." Prompted by questions from attendees, she addressed specific concerns affecting people in this time of economic decline. "Don't obsess and operate out of fear of the recession," she advised.

Her conclusion brought a challenge: Do something you haven't done before. You'll get new results.