The key is to keep company only with people who uplift you,
whose presence calls forth your best.
Epictetus (55 AD – 135 AD)
You may have heard the phrase, “Monkey see, monkey do.” In Motivation and Emotion, a series of studies about the tendency we have to imitate those we work with, we are coming to appreciate that our environments can help us be motivated and enhance our performance.
Research conducted at the University of Rochester, observed a subtle influence at work that, in the way a baby learns to walk and talk by mimicry, as it turns out, was happening without our being aware. When paired with a less motivated individual, they became less inspired and less productive.
If we are born to imitate, and the emotions and motivation of those around us is contagious, what can you do that makes sure you are able to make a positive difference even if you are working with others who are not always a positive influence? Here are a three tips that can help:
- Heap hot coals. Cover them with kindness! Meet them with encouragement!
Quit waiting for people to be perfect to start encouraging them, stop waiting for them to make you happy before you start encouraging them. Encourage them now and you might notice them starting to encourage you back! - Don’t talk like them. You don’t want to be like them, so don’t talk like them! Don’t whine or complain, or be negative back to them. Instead of responding with sarcastic comments, answer your critics with results!
- Whatever you focus on, is what you get good at. So, stop focusing on who is against you. Stop focusing on who is putting you down. Find who is for you and who is encouraging you. (3 Tips to Overcome Negative Influences, Nov. 21, 2012, by Laura McFaden)
You might find it easy to remember when you think about the difference between the functions of a thermostat and a thermometer: a thermometer measures the temperature of a space, but a thermostat controls the temperature. As a thermostat, you are the one who can make a difference.
This week, act as if what you do makes a difference. It does! Be a copycat, or be the cool cat who gets copied. Imitation is the highest form of flattery.
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Rev. Debra Basham
Voice: (269) 921-2217 Email: debra@scs-matters.com https://scs-matters.com http://ImagineHealing.info http://SurgicalSupport.info Small Changes … Infinite Results™
“If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.” ~Mother Teresa Tips from 5 April 2010 to 6 August 2012 are here: Archived Tips |