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Lesson 5: Fostering a Positive Culture

Name(s) of student(s):

Age and grade level:

Goal from IEP connected to lesson:

Objective from IEP connected to lesson:

Purpose of lesson: To teach the student to foster an optimistic environment using a positive attitude and effective humor.

Materials needed: Internet access, guest speaker

Introduction

“Imagine a boss who is consistently angry. He speaks harshly and never seems satisfied. The attitude and job satisfaction of the employees is negatively affected. Now imagine yourself as the team leader. You have a pleasant, thankful attitude and easily laugh with others. The climate of the team you are leading is positive and promising.”

Discussion: The Leader’s Attitude

Explain to the student that a leader’s attitude is contagious. The group’s attitude is likely a reflection of the leader’s attitude. When a leader is positive, pleasant, helpful, and thankful, the team is set to succeed emotionally. The reverse is equally true.

A leader must thoughtfully consider her responses to situations before reacting. While difficult circumstances will arise, a leader’s emotional reaction sets the tone for the group’s responses. 

Exercise: Reactions

Ask the student how the challenging situations below could be handled with a positive attitude.

  • You think your assistant is lying to you.
  • Your division of the company must undergo a budget-cut.
  • Your lunch was taken from the office refrigerator.
  • You overhear a loud conflict between two people you are responsible for at work.

Discussion: Laughter

Have the student read “Five Reasons Why We All Need Laughter in the Workplace.”

Discuss the benefits of humor in the workplace.

Invite a particularly humorous individual to share tips on successful humor. Tips should include using humor appropriately, laughing over situations instead of people, and avoiding sensitive topics.

Review

“Today we discussed the role a leader plays in creating a positive work-environment. A leader’s attitude is reflected in the group’s attitude. A leader’s reactions set the tone for the group’s reactions. A leader can use humor to break down emotional barriers and set the group at ease.”

Progress notes, data collection, comments, and modifications: