Toxic Positivity! A workplace problem!

How an overly optimistic culture can be harmful.

“Look on the bright side.” “Everything happens for a reason.” What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.” “Look for the silver lining, and stay positive.”

These phrases are often used to help people struggling with a difficult situation. Frequently, words stressing positivity can feel like a slap in the face. Those in pain may feel like their emotions are invalid and struggles are insignificant.

What is Toxic Positivity?

Toxic positivity is the idea that people must maintain a positive outlook no matter how upset or unhappy they feel. The positive toxicity approach rejects all but positive emotions and stresses the need to be positive even if it misrepresents a person’s reality. A lack of empathy emerges when others reply,” Be positive “ to those describing painful situations. Those struggling often feel angry and misunderstood. Life’s challenges and struggles help people learn, grow introspective, and seek help from those around them. Mentors, books, and classes can give individuals the emotional tools to endure pain. Internalizing these tools and knowing that pain can reduced allows people to trust themselves and reduce the anxiety that emerges when difficult situations and feelings arise.

The Pressure to be Positive in the Workplace

Many corporate executives have not tolerated employees’ negative attitudes. Toxic positivity in corporations has surfaced. Rosen’s September 15, 2021, cited a Science of People survey, which found that 68% of respondents had experienced toxic positivity in the workplace in the weeks before the survey. More than 75% of respondents ignored their genuine emotions to project happiness, often in the name of corporate professionalism. This finding suggests that toxic positivity is a common problem in the workplace.

Increased healthcare costs, general living costs, and everyday stress for workers. Most people cannot suppress their feelings. Suppression of true feelings can lead to difficulties that corporate executives are unaware of, resulting in increased long-term absenteeism and disability.

Is Toxic Positivity in the Workplace Changing?

Although Positive toxicity has been on the rise, more workers have been vocal about the harmful effects. Mental health professionals have become aware of the issue in corporations, consulting and writing articles to help.

Some corporate leaders have been responsive to creating improved cultures. They have hired consultants to collaborate with executives and employees, used mental health articles as a guide, and openly discussed mental health with managers and employees.

Thoughts

When they feel seen, heard, and understood, individuals feel supported and do their best at work, home, or social life. Empathy and understanding genuine emotions can contribute to stronger attachments and confidence.

References

Breeden,( 8/5/2024), Rise Above the Toxic Workplace: A Guide for Leaders. PsychologyToday.https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/detoxing-management/202406/rise-above-the-toxic-workplace-a-guide-for-leaders

Cherry,( Updated May 14, May 14 Why Toxic Positivity Can Be Harmful. Verywell Mind https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-toxic-positivity-

Kelly (July 17, The Negative Impact Of Toxic Positivity In The Workplace. Forbes.https://www.forbes.com/sites/jackkelly/2023/07/17/the-negative-impact-of-toxic-positivity-in-the-workplace/

Raypole, (9/13/2021), Good Vibes Only: The Subtle Trap of Toxic Positivity, Psychcentral

Rozen, S (September 15) Toxic positivity at work: how to spot it and squash it Work-Life Communication https://www.atlassian.com/blog/communication/toxic-positivity

#Toxic Positivity #Wellbeing #Productivity # Mental Health #EmpathY