You read the post title and undoubtedly someone out there thought "Great, this is one of those guru guys who listens to the audio tapes that tell him how thinking good thoughts can make you rich."  The answer to one part is, yes, I have read and listened to some of that material, however, I do not think simply thinking positive can make you rich. It will probably make you feel better about your finances but it won't increase them.  If it did work we would definitely see a lot more people trying it because as it was so eloquently put in Way of the Gun regarding money: "… is a motive with a universal adapter."

What I'm really after is more of a half-full versus empty mentality.  In my first 'regular' session of LLF (mind you there is nothing 'regular' about any of them) we were asked to read some articles on the future and outlooks on various things like wars, resources, etc.  Quite honestly it was very bleak.  As a father it was a little tough to read all that and have a lot of hope for what our children will have to solve.  But one of the other attendees really blew us away with his spin on what he saw.

He said he didn't feel sorry for his kids; he said he was excited for them because they have a lot of opportunity to make things better.

That really made me feel pretty crummy for feeling all sorry for my kids.  Yes, the world has problems; lots of them.  But that really translates into real opportunities for people to make a difference.

Think about that in the context of your own organization.  Very few people I know can say their organization is trouble free.  In fact, there are more issues plaguing organizations than we talk about.  Taking the spin above, what that really means is that you have that much opportunity to make things better.

One thing I have learned is to ask questions and never, ever assume when it comes to the pulse of your organization.  You can assume your way right into a black-hole of negativity if you aren't careful.  This is especially easy if you always run with the same click. 

I have been on project teams where the negative vibes started to outshine the good things we accomplished.  That is a very dangerous situation when it comes to your team's and your own reputation.  I even went as far as stating out loud that the team had to drop the negativity.  While venting is needed, chronic negativity does not solve problems.

When it comes to staying positive around the workplace make sure you have a group of trusted advisors who have a different perspective than your own.  Often times for those of us 'in the trenches' we can't see above the next hill.  Having trusted advisors at the same level may not always offer enough variety in perspective.

Quick tips:

  • When it comes to the rumor mill – talking about it longer than 2 minutes is speculation. Cut it off before the rumors get worse or you start to believe it.
  • On project teams try to keep the pulse; if it's too negative bring it up.  Outsiders will notice and it will give you a reputation.
  • Think in terms of challenges and opportunities.  Problems are things you complain about.  Challenges need solutions and opportunities provide growth.
  • Find perspective – from someone else or challenge your own mental models.  Anything to get you out of your comfort zone.
  • Never assume!
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