Four Ways to Maintain a Positive Mind-Set as a Leader

Our thoughts…

It is the source of creative genius – the hub from where we find solutions and change culture.

It is the only currency you as a leader have full control over.

A positive mind-set is one of the most important commodities a leader must cultivate and defend aggressively.  By having a positive mind-set, focused on dealing with challenges and finding solutions, you as a leader can better give direction in difficult times.

Do not confuse having a positive mind-set with ignoring problems, discounting challenges, or living in denial. A positive mind-set acknowledges problems, but knows creative and solution orientated thinking enables you to address the issue successfully.

Developing a Positive Mind-Set

• Accept you are here to grow and evolve. Life doesn’t always go according to plan.  Life is difficult, as the opening sentence in M. Scott Peck’s book “The Road Less Traveled“  challenge you head on.  It is however more so if you approach it with avoidance and apprehension. If you see problems or challenges as opportunities to become stronger, wiser and more resilient, you are thinking positively and productively.
• Learn to turn lemons into lemonade. Look for the lessons you can learn in every situation. Instead of feeling sorry for yourself when things don’t go your way, do what you can to make the best of it. You can learn to avoid falling in the same traps, making the same mistakes and by doing so, be the better for it.  As James Joyce said: “A man’s errors are his portals of discovery.”
• Believe in yourself. Know you have what it takes to succeed. Your dreams and goals indicate where your talents and true potential lie. Needless to say, you must develop your inherent gifts; recognize the unique contribution you can make. You’re one of a kind.
• Acquire perseverance. When you possess a positive thinking mind-set you never give up. You pursue your dreams, your goals and objectives with everything you’ve got and you don’t settle for anything less. That’s not to say you won’t have roadblocks and various setbacks along the way. It just means you won’t let them stop you!

"Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising up every time we fail." Ralph Waldo Emerson.

• Look for inspiration and support. Read about and study the triumphs of others. Many successful people have gone through challenging circumstances to get where they are. Learning about their challenges can motivate and inspire you to achieve what you desire to achieve. To help you stay positive and focused, garner support from family and friends.

“Most of us, swimming against the tides of trouble the world know nothing about, need only a bit of praise or encouragement – and we will make the goal.”  Jerome Fleishman