Famously, we can't always get what we want – and that includes within the workplace. Spending 40 hours (or more!) per week at work is sure to bring a set of challenges once in a while. How employees react to these obstacles can have a big impact on a team's overall morale. An emotionally driven response will yield different results from using logic to orient oneself between point A and point B. Transforming workplace challenges involves a shift in mindset from merely complaining about problems to actively seeking and implementing solutions.

The complaint takes root

Why do people complain? Simply put, they might not agree with the decisions being made, or how those decisions have impacted their lives, thus drawing a negative response. Complaints can burn off some emotional steam, but they can also take on a life of their own if employees are bonding about their shared workplace miseries.

Chronic negativity in the workplace can have detrimental effects on both an individual's morale and overall team dynamics. This can lead to discouragement, lower levels of productivity and — ultimately — employee turnover.

Perhaps there is a valid reason for a set of complaints. Instead of bringing a series of emotional outbursts to the table, employees would be wise to prepare themselves with a plan of action. Navigating challenges in a professional manner will not only foster a more positive working environment, but also promotes collaboration and a sense of ownership among employees.

Presenting the problem, and some solutions

A certain scenario might have been ill-planned, poorly executed or left employees feeling blind-sided. Time to go rant to the boss about their poorly envisioned strategies, right? Wrong. Think of it this way – how would your argument hold up in court? It's important to differentiate between complaining and mindfully starting a dialogue in order to address an issue.

Running a business can be an emotional roller coaster for employees and management alike. In navigating their emotions, employees should shift their mindset from dwelling on problems to actively seeking solutions. This prompts a proactive approach to challenges, and will lead to a more substantial discussion with a manager.

Here are some best practices for effectively addressing workplace challenges:

• Identify the problem: What is the issue at hand? General complaints will not get an employee very far, as they are emotionally-driven thoughts with a dead end. Employees must back up their argument with a set of solutions to propel the situation forward agreeably.
• Identify potential solutions: Remain open-minded when working toward a solution.Consider budget, resources, time, and other team constraints. Will the solution revert to past strategies, or will there be a new implementation?
• Work towards the solution as a team: Organize regular brainstorming sessions where teams collectively identify challenges and work together to find solutions. This promotes a collaborative culture, and shows employees that their voice matters, too.

Who's listening?

The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent return-to-work in the "new normal" has shaken our definition of the workplace in recent years. With new workplace expectations, so too should come empathy from leaders and identifiable endpoints to provide employees. Otherwise, confusion about priorities and purpose can take root – and might just lead to a few complaints.

Leaders should actively participate in solution-seeking processes, demonstrating a commitment to positive change. Stating "It had to be done" or giving dismissive responses are just as impractical as complaints, and continue the cycle of workplace toxicity. This diminishes any hope an employee may have in being heard or coordinating a better path to success.

Management should seek to create an environment where employees feel comfortable expressing concerns. Open lines of communication foster trust and transparency. Leaders might even implement regular feedback sessions to evaluate the effectiveness of implemented solutions. Other tools include the deployment of anonymous surveys and polls to gather honest feedback about workplace challenges and the effectiveness of solutions.

A brighter future

Turning complaints into positive workplace solutions demonstrates leadership, a willingness to step up and the desire to maintain an organization's success. Times can get tough at work, and looming deadlines can define the mood of the office. However, maintaining a positive atmosphere will keep the negativity at bay and keep employees invested and engaged in their work.

Employees and management alike should acknowledge and celebrate small successes. This reinforces a positive mindset and motivates employees to continue seeking solutions. Focus on others by asking what went well this week, or by offering a hand. Highlight individuals or teams for doing a good job, and show that appreciation often.

Replacing complaints with actionable solutions uncovers a positive mindset, constructive dialogues and employee growth. By embracing these strategies, organizations can create a workplace culture that values collaboration, problem-solving and continuous improvement, ultimately leading to a more supportive and productive environment for all.