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Life Notes: The Power of Positive Thinkingby Erin Rocket, NCC, LPC, LMFT What are the first words typically used by parents or authority figures to stop unwanted behaviors in children or other persons? "Stop", "no", and "don't do that" top the popular verbal interventions list. While these statements serve to limit undesirable behavior, they also limit achievement if they are not balanced with equally empowering statements. When behavior change requests are made, success is more likely if positive behaviors are suggested to replace undesired one. Compliments or specific praise will increase the frequency of positive behaviors. By taking a few moments to brighten someone's day with a little encouragement, one can unleash the power of a positive attitude. Some examples: In a high school, students were randomly assigned to groups labeled as "bright" and "slow" academic ability, regardless of the students' actual potential. Educators then taught and treated the students in accord with these labels. At the end of the year, most students in the "bright" category increased in academic performance, regardless of their actual limitations. In contrast, even gifted students in the "slow" category did not perform up to their actual potential. This case example demonstrates that positive expectations unleash great potential, and negative labels are limiting. Corporations which encourage employee creativity and foster positive working environments have higher productivity rates and reduced employee absenteeism. Patients stricken with significant illness have greater recovery rates when they maintain strong social support systems and keep a positive perspective. In standstill traffic, the simple act of allowing one car to merge into a lane typically results in a chain reaction of many drivers allowing others to merge, resulting in improved flow of traffic. A few kind words from a customer can rejuvenate a stressed-out clerk's shift, resulting in a more pleasant shopping experience for everyone following behind in the check-out line. And finally, the human face requires drastically fewer muscles to smile than to frown, and smiles are contagious. Life Notes: Complete List 2004 2003 The Life Notes articles are written by staff of Louisiana Methodist Children's Home and are published in The Ruston Daily Leader. | |||
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