To start, I need to make a few things clear. This article is not about me. I may reference myself to demonstrate the topic I’m discussing, but in no way am I tooting my own horn.
A few years back I wrote an article about why I wear Superman shirts, and that still holds true. My work dress code doesn’t allow Superman T-shirts on the job, so I found a workaround: button-down Superman shirts. But there are still times when I want to wear a T-shirt.
I work in children’s services, where we deal with domestic violence, child abuse and mental health. So I decided to start wearing shirts that reflect those topics in a positive way. That’s the point. It’s the power of positivity.
One of my shirts reads on the back, “Dear person behind me, the world is a better place with you in it. Love, the person in front.” I was wearing it at a gas station when an elderly man tapped my shoulder and thanked me for it. It brought him joy, and it showed me how much a small message can do.
Last year brought “Superman,” James Gunn’s 2025 film about the Man of Steel, and its message was kindness. This year gave us “Masters of the Universe,” directed by Travis Knight, a story about authenticity in the face of adversity. Prince Adam reflects his true self, and it encourages those around him to do the same.
It’s no coincidence I’m writing this the same day “Ted Lasso” season four made its global debut. Ted is a character who uses positivity and thoughtfulness to bring out the best in the people around him, even while he struggles with his own personal battles.
Stop and think about what you do in your own workplace. Once again, this isn’t me tooting my own horn, but I’d like to share some ideas.
In our offices, we each have whiteboards outside our doors that we use to let others know when we’ve stepped out. There are times I’ll get to work early and write positive comments about everyone on their boards. It’s simple, it’s easy, and it brings a smile.
I once left my job for a few months, what I call my sabbatical period. When I returned, I was told how difficult things had been while I was gone. Two employees had been hospitalized, one had passed away, and the entire tone of the office had turned negative. Over time, multiple coworkers told me how good it was to have me back and the joy I brought with me. My administrator met with me and explained how much I affect morale and the people around me. I was missed. Again, this isn’t about me. It’s meant to illustrate, firsthand, what one person can do to change things for the better. I don’t think much of the things I do. It’s just me being me. But not everyone sees it that way.
Being positive isn’t magic. It won’t make all your dreams come true, but it will help shape your outlook on every challenge you face. It’s part of why I love Superman: it would be easy for him to be dark, brooding and angry, falling into an antihero role. It takes courage and strength to be hopeful and uplifting instead.
It’s easy to lose hope and turn negative. We all have the ability to make the world around us a little brighter. The power is in all of us. I’m not asking you to change the world overnight. I’m encouraging you to find ways to cheer someone up: give a smile, a high five, show kindness and put a little positivity into your world. See if it bears fruit.
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