How I imagine her office
I told her, that to combat it, she should cancel it out with an annoying level of positivity.
I thought about drawing a horse, but I didn't think that'd go too well.
For every annoying negative comment, my friend would have to respond with an equally annoying positive comment, and kapow! like matter meeting anti-matter, harmony would be restored. In order for this idea to be carried out to fruition, we came up with a plan.
Step #1: Eternal optimism
Every situation has a silver lining. And if you can't think of one, then things aren't as bad as they actually seem. Situations aren't difficult, they're a challenge to be overcome. That extra piece of work your boss has given you, good karma. And so on.
Moany colleague: It's raining again. I hate the rain.
Friend: When it rains, I always think how happy the fish must be.
Step #2: Always give the benefit of the doubt
No one is incompetent, lazy or rude. They're either incredibly busy, unwell, or have a deep-seated anxiety due to childhood trauma. And maybe, they're just having a bad day.
Step #3: Sing
This is one I have tested out, to many of a friend's dismay. And my conclusion is that for any occasion, there is an annoyingly upbeat song. At this time of year, festive songs are particularly appropriate, but my friend and I agreed that anything by Cliff Richard would do.
It would also be good to try and fit the song around the moaner's behaviour. Direct questions in songs towards them ("Sleigh bells ring, are you listening?"). If they are moaning about some problem, My Favourite Things is in order. Complaining about work should be replied with A Spoonful of Sugar.
With these steps, office harmony should be restored. Are there any vital steps I'm missing?
The best bit is the screams at periodic intervals. I think there was a showing of Hitchcock's Psycho next door.
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