“Be the Change You Wish to See in the World”- Ghandi
This famous saying of Gandhi’s applies in every part of life and can be especially helpful in the workplace. Trying to change others doesn’t work and frequently meets with resistance. But if you exemplify the change you want to see, the people who also want to change will be attracted to you — and if there are enough of you, a movement will be created. If more peace in the workplace is what you’re after, then start with yourself and watch as it catches on. Keeping peace in the office is achievable by raising your awareness to the level where peace is something you value and want to nurture.
For more tools for bringing peace to the workplace, check out these tips from The Chopra Center:
Don’t Be a Stressor for Other People. Most stress in a workplace isn’t caused by the tasks at hand, it’s caused by the people that work there. Ways to decrease stress include: not participating in office gossip, refusing to take sides regarding office issues, and refraining from stirring the pot with others. So next time you feel tempted to join in those type of activities pause and decide if it’s really necessary.
Examine Your Behavior in Light of How it Affects Others. The same tensions that are created in personal situations apply in the workplace, too. Take an honest look at your own personal tendencies, for example perfectionism, over-criticizing, or self -preservation, and decide if these behaviors benefit the group as a whole. If you recognize ways in which your behaviors are having a negative impact, then you can work to change it and that will create positive shifts for you and those around you.
Keep Lines of Communication Open and Constructive. Gossip and complaining are forms of venting not communication. Be mindful of your communication style. Work on appreciating others, offering support and being a good listener.
Be Aware of Other People’s Needs. Being heard and valued are both huge in the workplace. No two people are the same. Acknowledge what your colleagues are good at and allow everyone the dignity and room to expand their professional skills.
Establish Trust and Loyalty. Trust can be established by following through with your decisions, keeping your word, not playing favorites, and taking responsibility for your own missteps rather than blaming others.
By cultivating peace within ourselves we can create the change we want to see, and become happier and more productive while doing it!