How forced positivity erodes teams
A truly positive work environment recognizes the power of the individual. In fact, most high-performing teams believe that they’re free to take risks, share ideas and opinions, and work through their mistakes.
Forced positivity, on the other hand, invalidates people’s emotions and creates a culture where employees feel they have to hide their thoughts and struggles.
This could look like:
- Dismissive language: “Look on the bright side” or “It could be worse.”
- Unspoken energy expectations: Staying upbeat at all costs.
- Shutting down the critique: Only celebrating wins, not learning from setbacks.
Without genuine support and intelligent leadership, teams risk losing the trust and transparency needed to learn, grow, and evolve — leaving employees feeling unsupported in both their development and well-being. It is critical to maintain emphasis on team-level impact while still acknowledging the individual experience.
In a culture where vulnerability is discouraged, burnout often goes unspoken — and unresolved. According to SHRM’s 2024 State of Global Workplace Culture report, nearly one-third of employees (30%) are struggling with burnout, and 50% of them are actively looking for new jobs.
What’s driving them out? Inconsistent or ineffective management, unfair treatment, a lack of empathy from leadership, and too little attention paid to employee well-being. All of these challenges are magnified in organizations that fail to create space for authenticity and growth.
What’s driving them out? Inconsistent or ineffective management, unfair treatment, a lack of empathy from leadership, and too little attention paid to employee well-being. All of these challenges are magnified in organizations that fail to create space for authenticity and growth.
