Never Ignore the Influence of a Rotten Apple
What do you think happens when a lazy person joins a highly productive team?
- Option A: The lazy person feels inspired by the productive team and adopts their positive mindset, gradually rising to their level.
- Option B: The productive team members begin to lose their drive and become lazy over time.
It can’t possibly be Option B, right? After all, how could one lazy individual influence an entire group of hardworking people? Surely, being surrounded by productivity will inspire the lazy person to step up their game.
That’s what most of us believe will happen.
However, in my experience — and from what I’ve learned from others — the reality is often the opposite. One negative person can easily disrupt the team’s dynamic and pull everyone down. So why do we instinctively believe in Option A? It’s because we project our mindset onto the situation.
When you have good intentions
Many people struggle with situations where they can’t seem to inspire their team, deal with a partner’s destructive behavior, or watch their child make poor choices that jeopardize their future. These challenges are common for those who strive to improve their lives and aim higher.
