Thinking about positivity skills
Discuss these questions in pairs and answer them briefly.
1. What is hope?
Hope is a psychological state characterized by the anticipation of positive outcomes and the belief that goals can be achieved, even in the face of adversity. It involves setting goals, envisioning a brighter future, and maintaining the motivation to pursue them despite obstacles.
2. What is optimism?
Optimism is a cognitive bias towards interpreting events and circumstances in a favorable light. Optimistic individuals tend to expect good things to happen, see setbacks as temporary and surmountable, and view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles.
3. What is positivity?
Positivity encompasses a broader attitude of focusing on the positive aspects of life, maintaining an optimistic outlook, and cultivating hope even in difficult times. It involves gratitude, resilience, emotional regulation, and the ability to find joy and meaning amidst adversity.
4. How are hope, optimism and positivity different?
While hope, optimism, and positivity share similarities, they differ in focus and scope. Hope is more future-oriented and goal-directed, optimism is a cognitive bias towards positive expectations, and positivity is an overarching mindset that encompasses both hope and optimism while also emphasizing a positive outlook on life in general.
5. Are any of these attitudes important in living a good life? What would they be and why?
Each of these attitudes plays a crucial role in living a good life. Hope provides the drive and perseverance to overcome obstacles and pursue meaningful goals. Optimism fosters resilience, emotional well-being, and the ability to bounce back from setbacks. Positivity enhances overall quality of life by promoting happiness, satisfaction, and a sense of fulfillment, even amidst challenges. Together, they contribute to a resilient and flourishing life characterized by purpose, meaning, and well-being.
Workplace Skills
Discuss these questions in groups of four or foe and share your answers with the class. Each group can choose one topic.
1. Do employed people help other unemployed people find jobs? Why do jobs think they do so?
Employed people can help unemployed individuals find jobs by providing referrals, networking opportunities, or sharing job postings. They might do so out of empathy, social responsibility, or to expand their professional networks.
2. Does an unemployed person help an employee with his job? How so?
Unemployed individuals can offer fresh perspectives, extra help during busy periods, or fill temporary roles, benefiting the employed person and the company. They may do so through freelance work, volunteering, or internships.
3. How do you think being unemployed affects both the individual and the organisation? Are there different kinds of unemployment? What could some of them be?
Being unemployed can impact individuals mentally, financially, and socially, leading to stress, low self-esteem, and financial strain. For organizations, it can affect productivity, morale, and reputation. Types of unemployment include frictional, structural, and cyclical, each with different causes and consequences.
4. How does an employer treat unemployment in candidates who apply for jobs especially in less structured sectors such as agriculture, construction, etc?
In less structured sectors, employers may prioritize practical skills, experience, and willingness to learn over formal education or employment history. They may offer training programs, apprenticeships, or on-the-job learning opportunities to candidates regardless of their unemployment status.
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