Maintaining positivity

I am a very positive person.

This is not a characteristic that you would have found in me as a young man but today I told you that I am renowned for my positive, enthusiastic outlook on life.

An interview with me was published in The Times of London this week where I share a little of the challenges I have overcome in my life but what I didn't talk about was the incredible power of a positive attitude.

When tired, overworked or having one of those days where I feel a tsunami of problems is heading my way I really on my positivity to ensure I empower my creative, empathic, brave self to deal with each one in turn.

But I do not have an unlimited supply of positivity. Every day I have to work on myself to ensure I recharge the positive battery and be ready for what the world will throw at me.

So here's how I remain positive

1. I focus my attention on others as much as possible.
2. Remind myself of why I should be grateful to the universe.
3. Spend time in the company of those who radiate a can-do attitude and limit the time I spend with those who drain my energies.
4. Be active. Whether it's walking the dog, travelling to a business meeting or going for a run I will not allow myself to vegetate on the TV couch.
5. Always remain focused on my purpose which is to help others. Accept I can't always achieve this but always try.
6. Be assured that the mental resilience I have developed will allow me to cope with whatever I encounter.
7. Keep taking risks. This can be tough as my ego tells me I have a reputation to protect and failure would destroy this. I smile as I write these words as I recognise just how daft an ego is :)

Of course, as my wife will testify spending time in the company of someone with this outlook on life can be extremely irritating and if my words or actions do offend I hope you will accept my apology.

Opportunities

(1) The last chance to apply for the latest Scottish EDGE call is open until September 11th. Funding of between ￡10,000 and ￡100,000 is available for budding entrepreneurs.

(2) I would like to invite you to join me for a drink in London on September 12th and to meet some of the amazing members of our Scottish Business Network community-based in the city. Simply DM me if you would like to attend as my guest.

(3) ￡8 million in Scottish Government contracts covering multiple challenges available to innovators in Scotland and across the world. I urge anyone applying to get their application in soon as the closing date is Midday Tuesday 10th Sept. Review the challenges and process here.

If you have anything to add to this list please DM me or email at [email protected].

Articles

(simply click on the image to read the article)

1. The Times of London

I was humbled this week as my interview with Richard Tyler appeared in the business section of The Times . Speaking on the subject of "ego management" and sharing some of the personal challenges I have faced in my career I must admit I was nervous as the article went to press but I have been hugely encouraged by the positive response I have received.

2. Fundraising help

Raising money is tough but this article by my college Paul Forrest will certainly be of help to anyone engaged in or planning this arduous task.

3. My positivity-boosting find of the week

Youtube is an amazing resource. In this video from 2015, we find the songwriter and singer Carole King serenaded by the incredible Aretha Franklin. This video is even more powerful when I read that Aretha Franklin's health was very poor and no one expected her to have the strength to perform.

Play this loud and play it again to help recharge your positivity for life.

What's next on my agenda

This week I start back on my travels and have the privelage of making my first visit to India for at least a decade.

10th: Glasgow

11th/13th: London

16th: Falkirk

17th: Mumbai

19th/21st Bangalore

21st/23rd Dubai

24th: London

I always try to build in my spare time when I travel and if you are available to meet I will try and accommodate you.

How can you help?

1. Please leave a comment sharing your feedback, insight or thoughts on what you have read. This is invaluable as I ensure this publication is adding value for you.
2. Share this newsletter with those in your community if you feel they will find value in receiving a copy: https://www.dhirubhai.net/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7169668571235606528
3. Don't hesitate to DM, or email me at [email protected] if you believe I may be able to assist you in moving your business forward. Helping others is my goal in life and I always have time to talk.