Positivity

Recently, I read an article on positivity in which the work of scholar Marcial Losada regarding interoffice dynamics was referenced. Losada conducted numerous studies on committees and group efforts. Out of his work came what he called "three dimensions" of statements made by workers in their interactions with each other. According to Losada, the statements were: positive or negative; self-focused on other-focused; or based on inquiry (asking questions) or advocacy (defending a point of view.) Depending upon which dimension dominated interactions within committees or groups, the level of effectiveness and positivity of a particular team was largely determined.

Basically, Losada's research suggested that the more team members looked beyond their own individual perspectives the more likely they were able to be collaborative, productive and upbeat. Consequently, these kind of results benefit the overall organization as well as the individual members of a team or group. That proves to be a win-win for everyone. How well members connect - their level of connectivity - is the ultimate difference between groups that flourish and ones that do not. Not so coincidently, Losada's work touches on the best elements of communication: reaching out to others and establishing strategies to help keep that connection viable and strong.

In a group situation the challenge is for members to strike a balance between contributing their own ideas and viewpoints with those who have other perspectives to share. Communication, along with Losada's research, is not a false choice between either being heard or hearing others. Instead, it can and should be both. With a commitment to being active listeners and actively engaging in the dialog that defines group work, members, ideally, will be able to make their team experience both positive and productive.