From Optimist to Pessimist and Back Again!

From Optimist to Pessimist and Back Again

All Because of an Email

  

You click on an email (one of dozens in your inbox), glance through it and immediately it generates a negative response. You want to set that person straight; correct that perception; and get to the bottom of the issue. You immediately begin a reply. Your emotions rule!  Stop! Look! And think!

Maintain your optimistic attitude! Think smart. Be wise.  

           Write your response, however don’t send it. Keep it as a draft. Later, after you've given it rational thought,  review and edit the draft to remove any reactionary comments. Re-write it from a calm, considerate, thoughtful and positive position.

Wait before you reply.  Read it again. What was it about the message that brought out your negative reaction? Email messages can be misinterpreted so very easily. Generally they are flat and dry. There are no voice inflections or facial expressions that express the tone of the message. 

Read it again from a different attitude before you reply. Before reading it the second time, consider what was it that brought out your reaction?  Is your reaction to it warranted?

           Consider the intent of the sender. Did the writer of the message intend for you to react negatively? If so, why? Regardless of the purpose of the writer, your response reflects you. Keep your words in control. Maintain objectivity and dignity. Even if the intent of the sender was negative, you maintain control of how it affects you. You remain positive!

Remember: Email messages are permanent. They can appear to take on a life of their own and end up in any number of inboxes. In the highly technical world, even after deleted, they can be resurrected.

Always remain positive, optimistic and in charge of your responses. Correct only any errors and misunderstandings indicated in the message. Do that with finesse. Keep any opinions to yourself.

P.S. Using all capital letters in an email message is perceived by the receiver as being inflammatory, whether you do it accidentally or without thinking. Consider all caps as being work of a pessimist. Receiving a message written in all capital letters, give the sender credit. Maybe that person did it accidentally or does not realize the negative impact that causes.