- PEOPLE
The unique quality of positivity allows us to value ourselves and others, thus enhancing the mood around us.
Positivity is an inner strength that allows us to face life's difficulties with a proactive and optimistic attitude, choosing to focus on solutions instead of problems.
It’s a unique characteristic that Gunes Abakay, Models and Projects Manager for Human Resources Internationalisation, applies every day, both at work and in her personal life. After all, her name means “sun” in Turkish.
Born in Turkey and having lived in three different countries, Gunes has learned from her international experience that a smile knows no borders and can overcome cultural and linguistic barriers. It’s thanks to this awareness that she always manages to bring out the best in others, drawing on her empathy and her ability to listen without judgement.
The positive mindset has been the subject of numerous research studies and is recognised as an essential element in individual psychological and physical well-being. Martin Seligman, one of the main exponents of Positive Psychology, founded an approach that highlights individual resources and potential.
Through his research, Seligman attempts to address fundamental questions such as What makes people happy? How can we live a more fulfilling life?
The answer is that lasting happiness and well-being do not depend exclusively on external factors such as success, wealth or health, but on how individuals manage their mood, their emotions and their inner resources.
It follows that positivity is key not only to living an enjoyable and fulfilling life, but also to success at work. A Gallup survey revealed that, despite benefits such as flexible hours or remote working, employees prefer a positive environment over material rewards.
This underlines how performance at work is closely connected to employees’ emotional and relational well-being. A positive working environment fosters motivation, collaboration and productivity, which are crucial elements of both individual and corporate success. When employees feel valued, listened to and supported, they are more likely to engage with their role, develop new skills and take a proactive approach to challenges.
Here too, the unique quality of positivity plays a crucial role. Inclusiveness in the workplace depends to a large extent on the corporate culture, which should be based on respect, openness and mutual support. A positive attitude helps to reduce prejudice, encourages communication and fosters empathy between people with different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives.
ONE PIECE OF ADVICE: “Be a Citizen of the World, and don't be limited by other people’s comments and opinions. Some people might tell you it’s impossible to achieve certain goals in your career. However, they’re often not fully aware of your abilities, skills and ambitions, and therefore your uniqueness.”
Gunes Abakay
Models and Projects Manager for Human Resources Internationalisation
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