The Power of You – and How You can affect the Culture in your Organization.

There is a lot to be said for the old saying “One bad apple can ruin the whole barrel”, the culture of the organization that you and I work in everyday can and will have a great bearing on the enjoyment and ultimate success of our careers.

A 2012 article in Live Science written by Kim Ann Zimmerman www.livescience.com defines culture as “the characteristics of a particular group of people defined, by anything from language, religion, cuisine, SOCIAL HABITS, music and art.” I would add to this list the mental and physiological attitude of the individuals within the group.

Let’s be honest, when we look at the world at large history shows us time and time again how the attitudes and beliefs of individuals can dictate the actions of the entire group, thus defining that culture.

One negative person in an organization can destroy the entire culture of the organization. Making just showing up to work every day a challenge were on the other hand one positive individual can have a contagious affect on the individuals in a group in the opposite direction.

I like to say that “Life is about choices and success a choice” likewise how we think in feel everyday is a choice. We don’t have to be unhappy with our company, our boss or our career to the point that we drag everyone around us down….we can always quit.

I have a hard time understanding why a negative person who is not happy will stay with a company or organization the makes them miserable. Move on …life is too short, you and I have a responsibility to protect our own attitudes and not allow someone who is unhappy with themselves to destroy our organization and work place. We need to challenge negativity and  realize we can and are that one apple.

Good Selling

Bob