IQA Toolbox Talk - Attitude

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TOOLBOX TALK

ATTITUDE IN THE WORKPLACE


Have you ever considered how your attitude – positive or negative – affects your overall job
performance? What type of attitude do you present to your colleagues, subordinates, and associates? It is
common to experience periods where attitude could be improved – however a consistently negative
attitude can be detrimental to your wellbeing. If you are generally a negative person, you should
consider what effects could contribute to a more positive attitude.

Positive attitude and health benefits


There are many benefits of a positive attitude. Aside from the obvious - improved mood and being more
enjoyable to be around, researchers at The Mayo Clinic have discovered possible benefits including;

• Increased life span


• Lower rates of depression Lower levels of distress
• Greater resistance to the common cold
• Better psychological and physical well-being
• Reduced risk of death from cardiovascular disease
• Better coping skills during hardships and times of stress

Attitude towards workplace safety


A negative attitude in the workplace can lead to inaccuracy, complacency, and task distraction. A
negative attitude towards safety processes, can result in unsafe behaviours, putting yourself and your
colleagues at risk of injury or property damage.

Question: Is your overall attitude as it relates to safety positive or negative? Think about why you
answered this way.

How to improve your attitude


1. Determine whether you are displaying signs of a negative attitude. The first step to improve your
attitude is to ask yourself how your attitude is today, and you feel this way. If it is negative then
you need to try to improve it to be a safer, more productive employee.

2. Identify the source of the issue/s. After you recognize the state of your attitude it is important to
find the contributing source of these issues. What is frustrating you, and why is it impacting you?
Whatever the issue, take note of the sources of your negative attitude.

3. Address the issues. Take the time to address what is having a negative effect on your attitude.
For example, if it is an issue with a co-worker or boss, have a conversation with them. Most issues
can be resolved with a constructive conversation. If the issue cannot be resolved with a
conversation with the other person, go to another level of management to resolve it.

4. Monitor your attitude. It is important to regularly self-assess – what attitude am I displaying and
how am I presenting to my colleagues. A good way to do this is to monitor your thoughts or
conversations - if your thoughts are consistently more negative than positive, it is a good
indicator that you need to improve your attitude.
Key Takeaways
A good attitude toward safety is a key to preventing unnecessary incidents and injuries. Your attitude
affects your safety and the safety of everyone around you, whether you are at work or at home.

A good attitude means taking the time to do the job right because you know that saving a few minutes
by using a shortcut is not worth the risk of a injury.

People like positive people – we are automatically drawn to a pleasant and upbeat demeanour. Your
business and personal relationships will improve when you display a positive attitude. There are
techniques you can use to help improve other people's reaction and attitude toward you.

For further information please contact:


The Institute of Quarrying Australia (IQA)
02 9484 0577
[email protected]
www.quarry.com.au
Version: Aug20

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