The Secret to Overcoming Negative Thoughts at Work

I hope your week is off to a great start! As I write this, I’m preparing to present at an event where, to my surprise, I discovered there’s no AV equipment available. If you’ve been to one of my presentations, you know how much I love incorporating music, videos, and images. So, you can imagine how my mind started racing with all kinds of negative thoughts.

This got me thinking about those pesky voices in our heads—the ones that tell us we can’t do something, or that it’s going to fail. It’s amazing how, especially when we’re stepping outside our comfort zones, these voices are always negative. They pop up just as we’re trying to achieve something new, whispering doubts and fears.

But here’s the thing: those voices lie. They’re not there to protect us; they’re there to keep us stuck. So, when that voice says, “This won’t work,” ask yourself, “Why not?” Challenge it. The more you question these thoughts, the more you’ll find that they have no real foundation.

As leaders, it’s important to remember that your team members are battling the same internal dialogue. When you ask them to try something new or approach things differently, they’re likely hearing those same negative voices. That’s why your encouragement is crucial. Let them know you believe in them, understand it’s a challenge, and have full confidence in their abilities.

I have a challenge for you this week: Make it a point to tell each member of your team, “I believe in you.” Not in a staff meeting, but in a one-on-one conversation. This simple gesture can make all the difference in helping them overcome doubts and reach new heights.

Proactive, Productive and Profitable,

Dino Watt, CSP (Certified Speaking Professional)