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Gratitude for 2018 Workplaces
In a recent newsletter from a colleague of mine there was a reminder that gratitude is a powerful mindset that can shift the way we see our circumstances. I have experienced this myself and through witnessing others expressing gratitude for sometimes difficult situations. At the Greater Good Science Center at University of California Berkeley a study of more than one thousand people, from ages eight to 80, found that people who practice gratitude consistently report a host of benefits:
Physical
- Stronger immune systems
- Less bothered by aches and pains
- Lower blood pressure
- Exercise more and take better care of their health
- Sleep longer and feel more refreshed upon waking
Psychological
- Higher levels of positive emotions
- More alert, alive, and awake
- More joy and pleasure
- More optimism and happiness
Social
- More helpful, generous, and compassionate
- More forgiving
- More outgoing
- Feel less lonely and isolated.
I know that 2018 was not a banner year for many Alberta organizations including numerous unemployed Albertans. Perhaps as 2019 begins it would be a good time to look back and appreciate the events in 2018 that have impacted Alberta workplaces in a positive way:
- A change in the Occupational Health and Safety code to include psychological health & safety ensuring our workplaces are healthier and safer for all.
- Growing understanding of the value of Workplace Restoration after critical conflict events.
- Shift in organizational attitudes – interest from organizations for training and other opportunities to create healthier workplaces.
- Organizations learning more about Mental Wellness and Mental Illness through conferences, training, etc.
- Increasing implementation of The National Standard of Canada for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace.
- Our partner, Respect in the Workplace has experienced substantial growth and client interest in Respectful Workplace Training.
Workplace Fairness West and Associates were thankful to be involved this year in providing:
- Monthly ongoing Ombuds service to 3 clients which included coaching, mediations, learning sessions & facilitations.
- 1 Assessment for a large municipal department
- 6 extensive Team Restorations
- 18 Learning Sessions/Facilitations – over 40 days
- 8 long term Coaching Clients – many of these involving respectful workplace coaching
- 7 Interpersonal Employee Mediations
- Speaking at 5 conferences and numerous learning events
Working with colleagues, experienced associates, and like-minded partners including;
- Workplace Fairness Institute in Toronto
- Calgary Consortium for Civility, Respect and Dignity at Work
- Respect in the Workplace
- Alberta Bullying Research, Resources, and Recovery Centre Inc.
- ACTivateHR
has been a blessing. I also want to express gratitude for ongoing learning from this often difficult work in the conflict resolution field and look forward to the opportunity to do more good work in 2019. What workplace event were you thankful for in 2018? How can you practice gratitude in 2019?
“Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance.” Eckhart Tolle