Counsels on Relationships

Counsel #5 — Office Gossip

Picture: Counsel #5 — Office Gossip CR 146.1

The proverbial “water cooler gathering” can be a great place to chat a few minutes amicably with your coworkers. When it turns to critical gossip about another coworker who isn’t there or about the boss, it’s probably time to head back to work.^[139] CR 146.2

Productive workers don’t waste time focusing on the negative aspects of others. Don’t let yourself be consumed by your colleagues’ flaws or shortcomings. CR 146.3

Speaking negatively about others is harmful, especially to the speaker. Those who spread discord and conflict ultimately sow the seeds of their own destruction. The act of constantly searching for faults in others can lead to the development of those same faults within yourself. By dwelling on the negative qualities of others, we risk becoming like them. However, by focusing on Jesus, discussing His love and perfect character, His Spirit transforms us into His image. CR 146.4

“A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.” Proverbs 16:28 NIV CR 146.5

“Cultivate the habit of speaking well of others. Dwell upon the good qualities of those with whom you associate, and see as little as possible of their errors and failings. When tempted to complain of what someone has said or done, praise something in that person’s life or character.” Ellen White in The Ministry of Health and Healing, p. 289 CR 146.6

Reflect: Is focusing on the positive qualities of your colleagues a practice you currently engage in? CR 146.7