How can you use positive reframing to cope with a difficult coworker?

2 How does positive reframing work?

Positive reframing works by activating the left prefrontal cortex of your brain, which is associated with positive emotions, creativity, and problem-solving. It also reduces the activity of the amygdala, which is responsible for fear, anxiety, and aggression. By reframing a negative situation as a positive one, you can change your emotional response and your behavioral reaction. Instead of feeling threatened, defensive, or hopeless, you can feel confident, curious, or hopeful. Instead of avoiding, confronting, or complaining, you can engage, collaborate, or appreciate.

3 How can you use positive reframing with a difficult coworker?

To use positive reframing with a difficult coworker, you need to follow three steps: identify, challenge, and replace. First, you need to identify the negative thoughts or beliefs that you have about your coworker or the situation. For example, you may think that they are incompetent, malicious, or disrespectful. Second, you need to challenge those thoughts or beliefs by looking for evidence that contradicts them, or by asking yourself if they are realistic, helpful, or fair. For example, you may realize that they have some strengths, that they are not intentionally trying to harm you, or that they have a different style or preference than you. Third, you need to replace those thoughts or beliefs with more positive or constructive ones that reflect the new perspective that you have gained. For example, you may think that they are learning, that they are coping with their own issues, or that they have a different perspective or goal than you.

4 What are the benefits of positive reframing?

Positive reframing can have numerous benefits for you and your coworker, such as improving mental and physical health, deepening the relationship between the two of you, and increasing work performance. Specifically, it can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while enhancing your immune system, sleep quality, and energy level. It can also increase trust, respect, and cooperation while decreasing conflict, tension, and hostility. Moreover, positive reframing can boost creativity, productivity, and satisfaction while enabling you to find solutions, opportunities, and improvements.

6 How can you overcome the challenges of positive reframing?

To overcome the challenges of positive reframing, you need to adopt some strategies that can help you develop this skill. Mindfulness, the ability to pay attention to the present moment without judgment or distraction, can help you become more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and sensations. Humor can also be beneficial, as it allows you to see the funny or absurd side of a situation and lighten up the mood. Additionally, seeking feedback is important for asking for and receiving constructive criticism or advice. Doing so can help you learn from your mistakes and appreciate your coworker's perspective.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?