Political discussions on the job cause many employees to feel stressed, argumentative, and less productive, according to a survey released by the American Psychological Association. More than one in four younger employees reported feeling stressed out because of the political discussions at work, and more than twice as many men as women said political talk is making them less productive. Potential negative outcomes includes feeling more isolated from colleagues, avoidance of others with a…

We appreciate and demand competitiveness from our athletes, but competitiveness at work is often shunned. It shouldn't be. The key is to be competitive in healthy ways. Competitiveness can help you achieve more, stay excited about your job, move quickly on opportunities, and win for your employer. To stay healthy competitive, avoid pairing your desire to achieve with the need to outdo coworkers for whatever acknowledgement, prize, or profit may result. Resist the reflex to engage in this sort…

Uncivil behaviors are in the workplace may include condescending statements, put-downs, sarcasm and/or even silence if it is used purposely to withhold a compliment or kind remark. Incivility is contagious became employees develop reflexes to reciprocate it, and may passively become uncivil toward others who did not provoke it. Fatigue from ruminating about about negative exchanges may be common, and employees normally disinclined to act uncivilly may begin doing so. Does any of this sound…

You may feel passionate about free expression, but maintain harmony and avoiding conflict with workplace colleagues is more important. Today's workplace requires that everyone value diversity so workers are free to maximize their potential in an atmosphere that is safe, supportive, and welcoming. Discussing politics in the work setting can create an atmosphere contrary to these goals. 

"Active listening" is a critical skill for professional counselors. It's used to help clients feel they are being truly heard. The term "active listening" actually originated in business literature to help managers communicate more effectively. You can benefit from these skills too. Here's how: 1) When listening to another person, show your interest by changing your emotions appropriately to react to the speaker's point, concern, or idea. Emotionally participate in the story. 2) React to any…

Creative people may have natural abilities, but they have something even more important -- habits and beliefs that support creative thought. If you adopt a few of these habits, you will boost your creativity too. Creative people usually do or believe the following: 1) Challenge accepted ways of doing things. 2) Have self-awareness for their preconceptions (biases and ways of viewing problems) and challenge them. 3) When faced with a problem, see it as a challenge, not a roadblock. 4) Are not…