Ten Quick Tips to Help Leaders Stay Positive

Several years ago, I was invited to present at an association meeting on the topic of "staying positive when things seem negative." Since it's a topic I've studied for decades and tried to practice almost as long, I agreed. As I reviewed the old notes recently, it occurred to me that I could update these ideas for leaders like you. When things seem negative, people always look to leaders. So pick a few of the following ideas that will help you stay positive when things seem negative...

1. Ask Expansive Questions (EQs). People who let negativity affect them often ask lousy questions (LQs), such as “Why does this always happen to me? Who screwed up this time? How come he’s not pulling his weight?” All these questions are legitimate AND lousy because they don’t lead to positive thoughts or actions. Expansive questions (EQs) are: “How can I make sure this doesn’t happen again? What can I learn from this? How can I ensure I pull my weight?” The more EQs we ask the more personal responsibility we take on and the better we feel. If you or your team want to increase the number of EQs you ask, start counting (keeping track of) the number asked.


2. Write S.M.A.R.T. goals and review them daily. We move in the direction of the dominant images we place, or let others place, in our minds. Goals keep you focused on the big picture. Start each meeting with the purpose/goal of the meeting.


3. Use positive affirmations and self-talk. Since we all talk to ourselves anyway, why not write a few of your favorite qualities on 3x5 index cards? Put them in your pocket as a reminder. Repeat them to yourself throughout the day whenever you put your hand in that pocket.


4. Read positive books before you go to bed. Have something other than the nightly news dancing around your brain all night. Read books about those who have conquered their challenges and achieved. I'm an American history enthusiast, so I love reading about George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Ben Franklin, the Louis and Clark expedition.


5. Spend more time with positive people. Spend less with those who are "optimistically challenged.” That giant sucking sound is our energy being drained by all the negative people we choose to keep in our lives.


6. Go for a brisk walk (i.e., 20 min.) with a friend at least three times/week. Discuss only positive things. Celebrate your and their successes.


7. Make a list of what you are thankful for once a month. Focus on what you have. There’s a reason the holidays begin with giving Thanksgiving.

Pick a few of these and do them faithfully. I've been doing most of them for years. How surprised will you be when people start looking to you to be positive when things seem negative? Keep stretching when you're pulled, Dave P.S. One of my goals this year is to increase the number of people who hear my positive messages. So feel free to forward this to anyone you feel could benefit. THANKS