Clarity . Connection . Comfort
Positive relational energy is a concept that has been researched by Kim Cameron, Ph.D., and his team at the University of Michigan. It refers to an individual’s ability to inspire, energize, and bring joy to those around them. Cameron’s team investigated large groups within organizations that were very productive while others were not. Their study found that at the center of those highly productive teams was an individual who was a “positive energizer,” who inspired and catapulted the success and productivity of the group. Their ability to communicate and use a value-based manner of interacting helped their team feel safe, seen, and valued. Honesty, integrity, generosity, kindness, empathy, compassion, and humility are some of the values that these positive energizers have and use in their daily interactions with their workgroup.
The ability to be a positive energizer extends to all types of relationships outside of work, whether it be romantic or among family and friends. According to Cameron, there are seven key aspects to becoming a positive energizer:
- Show genuine appreciation: Take a moment to recognize and appreciate those around you. Focus on acknowledging their qualities and their contribution to your life, whether at work or in your personal life. The research suggests that expressing gratitude towards your partner significantly improves the relationship.
- Be supportive: Show kindness to others when they are going through a challenging time. Recall a time when you went through a rough patch in your life and how grateful you were that others were there to listen and provide emotional support.
- Forgive and move on: Holding on to grudges weighs you down. Letting go helps you to feel lighter. Think about it as a gift you give yourself and others. Allow yourself to let go.
- Celebrate the good stuff: Choose to focus on the positive and celebrate successes big and small. Celebrate milestones, highlight what is going well, and enjoy time with fun friends. Avoid complaining, criticizing, and focusing on the negative which brings everyone around you down.
- Find meaning in your actions: Take time and reflect on how your work brings meaning to you and your clients. Think about the impact of your efforts at home with your family, and with your friends. Pausing to recognize that your actions and your work make a difference, can be fulfilling, and motivate you to go on.
- Embrace your core values: Being respectful, honest, and kind in your daily actions helps others feel safe and appreciated around you.
- Prioritize your well-being: Taking care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally is the best way to show up as the best version of yourself for others. You cannot give to others if you are depleted. Self-care is not selfish. It is easier to spread positivity when you are filling your emotional tank on a regular basis.
Source: The Secret Science of Successful Relationships
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