by Jennifer Shtutman*

With the weather drawing colder and the days turning darker, it is clear the yearly phenomenon of the winter doldrums are setting in. People seem to be grouchier and the coffee isn’t working as well as it seemed to just two warm months ago.  With the layering of clothing, there also seems to be a layering of “attitude.” Like yawning, negative attitudes are certainly contagious. Personally, I have noticed that when I have a positive attitude it changes the attitudes of those around me.  

With these thoughts in mind, I have devised several ways that you too can be as “cheery” as possible through the next cold months:  

1. Bring in a box of goodies or a reasonably “healthy” sweet treat. This is one happiness inducer I always found that works on my team. Picking up some munchkins from Dunkin Donuts, for example, is inexpensive and low-maintenance; while at the same time can be a happy surprise for unexpected colleagues.  The treats are sweet enough to give a sugar boost, yet small enough not to cause guilt on our waistlines. 

2. Share positive feedback from clients. When someone gets a really great kudos, or congratulations on a good job, it is nice to show others that our hard work does not go unappreciated day in and day out. Sharing these feelings of good sentiment from our clients can be a great esteem boost for those around us. 

3. Develop an office support system. Whether you’re working in marketing, advertising, public relations or some other industry, developing relationships with team members can minimize stress and lets you know that those around you understand what you are going through.

4. Re-decorate!  Adding new flare and panache to your personal office space can help lift your spirits on those down and out days. Include photos of friends, family, and those people close to you who make you feel great inside. 

5. Place a candy bowl on your desk. This is one of my favorite ways to let my co-workers know I am  approachable, and that they can take snack break when needed. 

6. Keep your personal space organized and clean. You’ll feel as though you are more in control. Employees can gain an easy sense of satisfaction by keeping their things in order. Enhanced confidence and motivation will also stem from this simple change. 

7. Make friends at the office. It has been proven that the happiest people are those who can count on their colleagues as their friends. Finding people at the workplace, who you have a connection with, can really make a difference in your day to day experiences. Ask coworkers about their evenings and weekend plans, also about their families and life outside the office. Catching up on everyday life can lift spirits and help you look forward to coming to work.  Support through your coworkers can make anyone feel better!

As the winter months approach, what things do you do that enhance your day to day activities at the office?  How do you keep from layering on the attitude?  Please share your thoughts with me and the readers of BurrellesLuce Fresh Ideas.

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*Bio: Jennifer Shtutman has been an Account Manager with the BurrellesLuce client services team since 2007.  She is passionate about all things media and enjoys hearing about the latest trends and technologies in our business.  Jenn is an avid writer and editor for the Fordham University academic journal, Perspectives, and is currently working towards her master’s from Fordham University. What she most enjoys about her profession is that she is in the business of keeping people happy. “I am all about maintaining a positive relationship with my clients, and helping them gain the most out of what BurrellesLuce has to offer.” Facebook: BurrellesLuce LinkedIn: Jennifer Shtutman Twitter: @BurrellesLuce