The Power of Positivity: Optimism is key to negotiating good contracts


In 2011, our Union contracts with the major super market companies will expire.

UFCW 8 is already deep in preparation for the demanding process of negotiating new agree ments that will determine the wages, benefits and working conditions of most of our members in the Retail Food industry.

In the coming months we will discuss the many issues involved in these negotiations and the innovative strategies UFCW 8 will employ to win the best possible terms for your contracts.

In the meantime, you can do your part by maintaining a positive attitude toward your job and your Union.

Why is it so important to keep a positive attitude?

Those who expect more from life and believe in themselves are more successful in every endeavor.

As the English writer W. Somerset Maugham explained: “If you refuse to accept anything but the best, you very often get it.”

Counting our blessings

Just as important is our appreciation for those things we already have: our health, our families, our friends, our freedoms and our Union.

These aren’t mere platitudes. By keeping a positive outlook, you can improve your health and take control of your life.

An upbeat attitude has many beneficial physical aspects, including higher energy levels and improved sleep patterns. People gravitate toward those who think positively. Their opinions are sought and they’re seen as natural born leaders.

An important part of positive thinking is being realistic. You don’t have to expect the worst, but it’s important to be flexible and prepared to fix things if they go wrong. Be realistic and positive, no matter what the outcome.

We’ve all seen teams beat seemingly insurmountable odds in come-from-behind victories. We have seen people over come what appeared to be fatal illnesses. This year in particular, we’ve seen the outpouring of humanity and compassion in the wake of
monumental disasters.

All of this is evidence that good things do happen. Miracles do happen. Focus on these things. Life itself is a miracle.

Happy Holidays.
Solidarity Works!