Positivity vs. Negativity

Learn the habits of successful leaders.

The "Success Thoughts For Students" collection contains powerful statements that have shaped the lives of successful people. At the core of each statement is the idea of fostering positivity or eliminating negativity.

Top Seven Habits to Eradicate Negativity and Promote Positivity

Promoting positivity in schools is essential for creating a healthy and productive learning environment.

  • Lead by example. As the leader of the school, the principal sets the tone for the entire school community. Principals should model positive behavior and attitudes, including speaking kindly about themselves and others, accepting mistakes, and noting how setbacks lead to new opportunities.
  • Use positive language. Train staff to use positive language when communicating with students, parents, and each other. This will help create a more positive school culture.
  • Teach positive thinking skills. Teach students positive thinking skills such as optimism, perseverance, or confidence. This the impetus for "Success Thoughts For Students." Use the collection on the daily announcements or in the classroom. Additional strategies include school-wide activities or assemblies which might include guest presenters. In the classroom, teachers can use books about successful people or students could compose their own stories using positivity prompts.
  • Practice gratitude. Inspire students and staff to practice gratitude daily by focusing on the positive aspects of their lives and expressing appreciation for others. This can also be done through activities such as writing down something for which student is grateful or even a positive experience from the past 24 hours.
  • Promote random acts of kindness. Recommend students and staff to perform random acts of kindness, such as holding the door for others and leaving positive notes of encouragement.
  • Nurture positive relationships. Encourage staff to build positive relationships with students, parents, and each other. This can be done through team-building activities, mentorship programs, and other initiatives. Likewise, encourage students to form healthy relationships with their peers by teaching how they can offer their ideas and opinions in a positive and respectful manner.
  • Address negativity head-on. Principals should not ignore negative attitudes or behaviors in their school community. Instead, they should address them directly and work with staff to find solutions. With so many of our youth using social media, principals also should have a plan in place for responding to negative comments on derogatory messages on the internet.

As principal, you can ensure that your staff has the support they need to do their jobs effectively. This can include professional development opportunities or brain-storming sessions to address unique challenges in your school community.