Headwinds, flat sales, and downright tough times can be enough to dim even the sunniest outlooks.
But getting yourself and others to stay focused on the positive is essential. Maintaining an orientation toward what you can do rather than what you cannot do is one way to overcome dark days.
John Baldoni is the author of “Moxie: The Secret to Bold and Gutsy Leadership” and offers these three ways to encourage productive positivity:
Never sugarcoat reality. People know when things are bad. If you hold back they will assume the worst, not the better. Talk frankly about the business and emphasize an employee’s role as a contributor. Address employees as contributors, not as costs.
Challenge people. Re-think the business. Invite employees to come up with ideas for improvements. Turn good ideas into action steps. Pretend money is no object and that nothing is off limits. You have the time, perhaps you can find the money and resources.
Look ahead. Downcycles don’t last forever. What is the plan when (not if) you get through the turbulent times. How do you make sure you have the people, products, and processes to thrive when conditions do improve?
Thinking positively alone will not improve or save a business. But controlling what you can – your plan and your attitude – can go a long way in turning around a difficult situation.
Eddie Rickenbacker, World War I fighter ace and Medal of Honor recipient had this to say about cultivating a positive attitude: “Think positively and masterfully, with confidence and faith, and life becomes more secure, more fraught with action, and richer in experience and achievement.”
Have a great week.
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