“Everything happens for a reason”. It’s a phrase we hear quite often. We all understand the importance of receiving uplifting words when facing difficult moments. However, hastily attempting to suppress negative emotions can potentially be more damaging than beneficial. This phenomenon is identified as toxic positivity.
To encourage a positive atmosphere, numerous individuals and workplaces prioritize positive emotions to the exclusion of everything else.
What is toxic positivity?
According to Anxiety and Depression Association of America, toxic positivity manifests when uplifting statements are employed to downplay or eradicate distressing emotions, imposing an unrealistic expectation to maintain unwavering optimism, often disregarding the context of the situation.
Although optimism and positive thinking have their advantages, toxic positivity dismisses challenging emotions entirely, opting for an overly cheerful and sometimes insincerely positive facade.
Toxic positivity in the workplace
In the workplace toxic positivity emerges when the encouragement of a positive attitude becomes counterproductive or lacks authenticity. While cultivating a positive mindset and embracing optimism is a valuable soft skill in both professional and personal spheres, an excessive emphasis on positivity is inappropriate and can have detrimental effects on both individuals’ mental well-being and the overall health of the company.
Examples of toxic positivity phrases include:
- “Look for the silver lining.”
- “Everything happens for a reason.”
- “Don’t be sad!”
- “You are depressed because you choose to be depressed.”
- “It could be worse.”
- “Think happy thoughts!”
Tips to avoid toxic positivity in the workplace
#1 Be honest and authentic: Toxic positivity poses a challenge by promoting insincere optimism. This not only erodes trust but also hinders the establishment of meaningful connections among employees. Leading by example, demonstrating sincerity, and encouraging authenticity are crucial. This approach instills trust among employees, assuring them that issues will be addressed openly.
#2 Provide encouragement both in moments of success and adversity: While it’s crucial to offer comfort, support, and encouragement to colleagues during tough times, it’s even more significant to recognize when they are not feeling well, allowing them the space to express their emotions, and genuinely considering their well-being.
#3 Promote communication that is open and transparent: Establish a secure environment where both managers and team members feel free to discuss both positive and negative subjects without fearing repercussions. A truly positive work environment is one in which individuals can openly share their thoughts and receive support as needed.
Toxic Positivity vs. Optimism
The key distinction between toxic positivity and optimism lies in the fact that toxic positivity goes beyond mere optimism and has adverse effects on the individual exhibiting it.
#1 Toxic Positivity
- The form of positive thinking employed to persuade oneself of personal significance.
- Identified in individuals who exhibit excessive attachment to their jobs, families, or other individuals.
- Tend to be very self-centered and sometimes introverted
- Views as a positive trait, but it can also see as a negative trait
#2 Optimism
- A form of positive thinking employed to encourage optimistic perspectives on various aspects of life.
- Observed in individuals with high levels of optimism and positive expectations for themselves and the future.
- Individuals who lean towards open-mindedness and tolerance are typically different from those exhibiting toxic positivity.
- Views as a positive trait
Are there any repercussions of toxic positivity?
Toxic positivity can lead to significant adverse consequences concerning employee well-being and the overall workplace environment. These repercussions encompass:
- It prompts team members to conceal their emotions, requirements, and issues.
- It fosters a workplace culture that avoids addressing problems, leading to a breakdown of trust between employees and leaders who downplay and dismiss their emotions.
- It diminishes employees’ self-esteem and productivity, adding to heightened levels of anxiety and burnout.
Striking a balance between fostering a positive work environment and acknowledging the complexities of human emotions is paramount. Toxic positivity, with its tendency to dismiss challenging emotions, can have detrimental effects on both individual well-being and the overall health of a workplace.
