POSITIVITY.
- whatshesaid2020
- Apr 2, 2021
- 2 min read
Are you a glass half full person or a glass half empty person?
I tend to believe that I am a half full person. Seeing the possibility in every situation and person while not dwelling on the negative is my consummate goal. In fact, negativity drains me so I avoid it as much as possible. Sometimes I indulge, but then quickly realize that it's a very non-productive use of time and energy.
Charles Glassman once said, "Believing in negative thoughts is the single greatest obstruction to success."
Positivity is the single most important leadership quality, according to a recent study by The Alternative Board (TAB). A human capital strategy firm, Steward, Cooper & Coon, asked how can business leaders translate a, hopefully existing, positive outlook to their teams?
Well, first let’s identify what constitutes a positive company culture. In his blog, CEOThinks, Bill Hagaman, Managing Partner and CEO of WithumSmith+Brown, has broken down the qualities of a positive workplace into “Super Seven” important characteristics:
Caring for, and showing interest in your colleagues as friends beyond the workplace
Showing support and extending compassion and kindness when coworkers are struggling
Forgiving mistakes without placing blame
Cultivating a communication-friendly environment and avoiding gossip and dishonesty
Gaining and sharing inspiration at work
Focusing on the meaningfulness of tasks and projects
Treating all employees and colleagues with trust, respect, integrity and gratitude
My friend, Dr. Richard Parrot wrote a book called Leadership Lessons: Avoiding the Pitfalls of King Saul (2013) along with Dr. Ralph Hawkins. In the book they ask the question, "What positive contribution can you make? You may not be able to do all you want, but you can do something that makes a positive contribution."
Positivity is a choice. It is an intentional trait that one can possess. It is looking at that glass half empty and realizing that it is half full instead. How does one do that? By practicing positive thinking with positive motivations.
A great example from Parrot & Hawkins (2013) stated, "In the face of fear, respond with grace and dignity. It is tempting to get even, settle the score, or give some payback. How do you want people to think about you and remember you? Do the right thing. You are better at dealing with fear when you know that you have acted with integrity."
So the next time you look at a glass of water focus on it being half full and not empty. I believe it will quench your thirst better.
What She Said ~ Beverly
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