I walked outside to go to an appointment today and heard the deafening hum of cicadas. I sent a group text to my family that read, “Cicadas.Are.Loud.”

If you live in the metro DC area or some other parts of the East Coast, cicadas are a thing right now.

I think that cicadas are rather interesting, and it’s particularly cool that they arrive en masse every 17 years. What a cycle! What I have also noticed is that everyone in this area has a strong feeling about them. Last night a neighbor had a magnifying glass out and was looking at one particular cicada very carefully. When I walked by, she said, “Want to see the grooves on its shell? It’s so cool!” And just three days before, a friend shared with me that she is scared to walk outside for fear that one will fly into her because they are “just so gross.” I even have a friend who has turned cicadas into a culinary delight. Apparently the key is to use the nymph or teneral cicada, and if you can get past the fact that you are eating actual bugs, I understand that they are pretty tasty!

I realize that my own cicada perspective is heavily influenced by my eldest son. I remember his excitement 17 years ago when he was explaining the life cycle of the bug to his 5-year-old sister. The entomology lesson that occurred on our sidewalk that day feels like it was just yesterday.
Not only do those around us influence our feelings about cicadas, they also influence our perceptions of work. There’s a reason why companies seek out the most cheerful and positive person in the organization to conduct onboarding. Our first impressions matter!

Last week I attended an in-person meeting. After the meeting over lunch, two groups were debriefing. One group was literally discussing all that had gone well. At the other end of the table, a manager was going on and on about the one thing that had occurred during the meeting that he didn’t agree with. Of course, that manager was relaying the information and trying to convince anyone who would listen that the organization was a terrible place to work.

Want to feel good about your workplace? Hang out with people who appreciate the organization, respect the leadership, and enjoy the work. Like cicadas, the chatter will always be loud, so make sure it’s positive.