Optimistic Leadership

As a transformational leader, there are three simple ways to boost your positivity and strengthen your peace of mind.

Optimism is one of the most significant qualities of a transformative leader, and harnessing its power is one of the quickest and easiest ways to become more effective.

An optimistic attitude emphasizes problem-solving, productive collaboration, and clear communication.

As a leader, optimism influences your perception and conduct, as well as your capacity to lead your company and team through good and difficult times.

It's a frequent misunderstanding that you're either an optimist or a pessimist by nature. Optimism, like any other mindset, can be developed and strengthened.

It only takes a little practice, perseverance, and, of course, positivity.

What Attributes Characterize a True Optimist?

Ask yourself this question to better comprehend the power of optimism: Is a glass half-full – or half-empty – if you fill it halfway with water?

This age-old question and its response have determined how we evaluate each other's perspectives throughout history. You're an optimist if you perceive the glass as half-full. You're a pessimist if you think the glass is half-empty.

I recall discussing this expression with my husband, and he said something that I'll never forget.

He stated that the glasses are fillable regardless of whether they are half-full or half-empty. What a great example of the power of optimism!

This is the concept that any situation, no matter how wonderful or horrible, can always be improved. That is a True Optimist's perspective.

A Promise is the First Step in Fostering an Optimistic Mindset

This piece is the first in a new series exploring The Optimist Creed's promises – and the power of optimism – in the context of transformative leadership.

Today, we'll look at the first possible promise you may make to yourself as a transformational leader to help you embrace the mindset of a true optimist.

I'd like to invite you to make this vow to yourself right now if you're ready to embrace an optimistic outlook.

“I promise to myself that nothing will be able to shake my peace of mind.”

Have no worry if the concept of foolproof peace of mind appears to be a hefty request. Here are three easy methods to have a positive outlook and restore your tranquilly when things get tough.

Optimist Power Move 1: Cultivate Your Inner Peace Every Day

Optimism comes more naturally to some people than it does to others. My mother, for example, is the most optimistic person I know. Starting each day with a short prayer and meditation session is one of the ways she maintains her inner serenity.

Try meditating on what provides you inner peace when you wake up in the morning (or whenever you have a few minutes). You may even add a few empowering affirmations to the mix.

? “Every experience I have has a benefit and an opportunity,” for example.

? "Everything is falling into place perfectly." I let go of my fears and choose to trust.”

? “I have the strength and resourcefulness to deal with any situation that arises.”

Make a one-week commitment to this practice. When obstacles arise, you'll be surprised at how easy it becomes to tap into the power of optimism and recollect your sense of inner serenity.

Optimist Power Move 2: Alter your Perspective when things go wrong

There are times when we, as leaders, are completely shook to our core. Maybe a crucial contract goes through at the last minute, or we lose a key team member, or someone makes an expensive error. These are the times when it's critical for leaders to maintain their composure and consciously employ the power of optimism to their advantage.

When things go sideways, one approach to keep your cool is to ask yourself, "How important is this really?"

It's easy to become overwhelmed by things that, when you think about it, aren't actually that essential. It's not worth sacrificing your inner peace over today if it won't matter in ten years.

When I ask myself that question, I am able to de-stress, re-establish my calmness, and approach the problem with a clear mind.

Take a moment to alter your perspective, look at the larger picture, and return to your place of serenity the next time you face a challenging challenge or setback.

Optimist Power Move 3: Remind yourself that you're on a journey

There will be occasions when something happens that truly matters – and will matter in ten years.

I remind myself that I'm on a journey whenever I'm confronted with those situations. My role, at the end of the day, is to appreciate this adventure since it will come to an end one day. When that happens, I know everything will be fine - even if I can't see it right now.

When you're in those situations, remind yourself that it'll all come crashing down one way or another. And, no matter how impossible things appear at the time, they will all be resolved in the end.

Leaders' Optimism: Practice Makes Perfect

Every setback, a really transformational leader recognizes, contains a lesson and an opportunity to progress.

I encourage you to use these techniques in the coming week to strengthen your inner peace and harness the power of optimism to achieve your goals.

Remember the first pledge in our Optimism for Leaders series: "I commit myself to be so strong that nothing can shake my peace of mind."

This vow to yourself is the first step in becoming a more optimistic person – and a more effective transformative leader. Take this opportunity, if you haven't already, to make this vow to yourself.

Now I'm waiting for your response! Do you have an experience of how optimism helped you get through a difficult situation? Or do you have your own method for keeping your mind at ease? Let us know what you think of leaders' optimism in the comments section below!

Ishitaa Jain,

Empowerment Coach

Founder, Dive 'N' Fly