This week we were introduced to a new word by a training participant: haterade. This concept although new to us, has been hanging around for a while. And although you may be wondering what this new energy drink is, it isn’t something you want to consume. It’s a metaphor referring to excessive negativity, bad attitudes, spiteful actions and words that some individuals display. Depending on how much haterade you drink will determine how aggressive, negative or impatient you can become.
So, we’re sorry. That delicious well-known sports drink, Gatorade, is now on your mind. Gatorade fuels and replenishes the body, providing the right electrolytes to repair, replenish and rejuvenate the body. Gatorade is there to help.
Haterade however is something people can consume just like an unhealthy beverage.
It’s a toxic concoction and we want to avoid that cooler. It may be easy to participate in negativity and criticism, especially around the water cooler or coffee machine, but this haterade can cause serious damage to individuals, teams and organization. It can dilute the hard work we’ve put into our culture and relationships and damage it overnight. Drinking haterade usually is in response to a bad or negative situation or encounter with an individual. Haterade can be a ‘go to’ bad habit to deal with our frustrations.
Emotional Intelligent leaders learn that their words and actions will influence the outcome of any situation. We heard a brilliant quote not long ago that said, you are not responsible for your first thought, but you are responsible for your second thought and your first action. Drinking haterade goes against Emotional Intelligence. Why react when you can proactively influence a situation.
Watch what you are drinking in the morning.
A Team Human Conversation
Fight workplace zombies in your organization and join Team Human! Gather a group of fellow workplace zombie hunters to discuss our most recent blog post. Use the questions below to kick-start your conversation.
How do you currently manage or address negativity in your workplace? What strategies have you found effective in mitigating its impact on the team?
Can you identify recurring patterns or triggers that contribute to negativity? What leads to your haterade? How can we work together to promote a more positive work environment?
What steps can you take as a leader to encourage a healthy workplace culture and relationships – where we don’t reach for haterade but we decide on support, growth and commitment to excellence?
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