Positive psychologists tell us we can change our external lives by reshaping our thoughts, intentions, and interactions with others. The same is true when it comes to building a healthy culture in the classroom—one that fosters grittier, more resilient students who become valuable employers once out in the professional world.

As adults, we can refer back to what corporate business strategist Brandon Schaefer calls “schoolyard basics” to shape a supportive environment that enhances human potential. “These basic tools are the fundamentals of a proper culture,” he explains. They encompass character traits and behaviors we all learned in elementary school on how to “play well with others.” In other words, they define how we should present ourselves, whether that’s in a classroom or business setting. Here are easy steps to becoming your best self:

1. Listen

Remember when you had “circle time” in school and you had no other choice but to listen to your teacher read a book? You weren’t scrolling through your iPhone (most likely, they didn’t exist), texting, or making mental to-do lists. You had to simply be as you paid attention for a designated amount of time. The same concept applies to time spent in class or in a work meeting. Commit to hyper-focusing by truly listening during that chunk of time, without any distractions. Stash your phone in your desk drawer or leave it in your bookbag to eliminate any external temptations.

2. Participate

Don’t just listen—get involved. State your opinions, share your ideas, and ask relevant questions. If you’re in an online learning environment or video call for work, make sure your camera is turned on to show your instructor, peers, or colleagues you’re paying attention and fully invested in the conversation.

3. Be vulnerable

The #1 New York Times bestselling author Brené Brown built a multi-million franchise around the concept of how being vulnerable makes you more likable and ultimately more successful. Schaefer agrees that vulnerability is an attractive quality because others perceive those who wear their hearts on their sleeves as more genuine than people who portray an image of perfection. It’s okay—and even encouraged—to take a risk in the classroom or in your professional life. Be honest about the hurdles you’ve already overcome, your goals, and even your shortcomings. People will respond in a positive way, and maybe even feel more comfortable admitting their own insecurities.

4. Be kind

As simple as this may sound, being nice goes a long way. Smile when you enter a room or log on to a Zoom call. “A smile changes everything because it shows you care,” Schaefer says. Part of establishing a good culture is being respectful, open, friendly, and responsible. Hand in your assignments on time and meet deadlines to show others that you respect their time and effort. “It doesn’t matter if you work in a school or a nursing home or pharmaceutical company, good culture is not mean or impatient. Good culture doesn’t have any bullying.” The same rules that apply on the playground, apply in the real world.

5. Be resilient

Resiliency, or “grit,” is a key ingredient to success. You don’t have to be naturally smart to stand out—sometimes it just takes a good work ethic and putting in the extra effort to come out on top. The same holds true in our professional lives. We need to network, collaborate, solve problems. When you operate in a functioning environment, it’s easier to pick yourself up after a fall because failure is viewed as a learning opportunity, not the end of the world. 

In addition to the individual characteristics and behaviors that can turn you into a positivity magnet, there are ways to build a solid foundation for a classroom or corporation to ensure everyone is on the same page. They include:

1. Fundamental beliefs and assumptions

2. Shared values

3. Norms

4. Good behavior and actions

5. Tangible evidence

The first four guideposts can be outlined in a company’s mission statement, a course syllabus, a team orientation, or class lectures. The last point is a physical, visual, or auditory reminder of the first four core elements of a positive culture. This can be in the form of a motivational poster you display in your office or a “student of the month” program that showcases someone who embodies what it means to be a respected member of a collective whole.

Overall, Schaefer reminds us that we need to steer our own ship, armed with a clear map. You need directions to get where you want to be today, in five years, or even ten years down the road. And consistency is key—you need to act in helpful ways every day. This includes how you interact with others both in person and online and the way you present yourself on social media outlets. With a crystalized vision of your future coupled with small acts of kindness, you can achieve a positive outlook, which in turn yields real-world results. Change your mind, change your life.

This blog is based on Brandon Schaefer’s webinar, “Culture Creation: Influencing and Building Culture as a Student and Professional,” which is part of the “Wiley Speaks” series connecting professionals with college students. You can watch the on-demand webinar here.