Why I Always Say "Always Good/Selalu Baik" When Asked, "How Are You?"

Whenever someone asks me, "How are you?" at work or with friends, my answer is always the same: "Always good." It's not just a phrase; it's a mindset, a philosophy that shapes how I approach challenges, opportunities, and life.

The Power of Words

Words carry tremendous power. What we say to others—and ourselves—can shape how we feel, how we act, and even how we see the world. By consistently responding with "Always good," I'm not just letting the other person know I'm OK; I'm reinforcing that mindset in myself. It's a way of reminding myself to stay calm, focused, and positive, no matter what's happening around me.

Challenges and setbacks? Of course, they happen to all of us. But what I can control is my response. Saying "Always good" is my way of affirming that no external situation has the power to shake my internal balance. It's a powerful reminder that I am in control, capable, and resilient.

Why "Always Good"?

Life, as we all know, is unpredictable. I've faced my fair share of roadblocks, missed opportunities, and setbacks—just like anyone else. But I don't let those moments define me. My "Always good" philosophy comes from knowing I control how I respond to every challenge. For example, when I lost a significant project, I focused on what I learned from the experience and the new doors it opened instead of dwelling on the disappointment.

By saying, "Always good," I'm not ignoring problems or pretending they don't exist. I acknowledge that I can handle them—with grace, positivity, and calm. This way of thinking doesn't just help me move forward; it often inspires those around me to do the same.

Staying Positive in the Face of Challenges

High-pressure environments—especially in leadership roles—come with many challenges. But here's the key: staying calm and positive is a choice. When obstacles come up, I don't see them as reasons to worry; I see them as opportunities to grow. My "Always good" response helps keep me grounded and focused on finding solutions instead of getting overwhelmed by the problem. It's a reminder that while we can't always control what happens to us, we can control how we react.

The more I tell myself things are good, the more I believe it—and the more I align my actions with that belief.

Being Cool and Collected

People often say remaining calm under pressure is a strength, especially in leadership. For me, it's not just about staying calm—it's about believing there's always a way forward, no matter how tough things get. When I say "Always good," I'm expressing that belief. It's not about ignoring the challenges but facing them head-on with a positive, solution-focused mindset.

In chaotic moments, I've noticed that my calm demeanour helps steady those around me. Whether in meetings, during negotiations, or when leading a team, my response sends a clear message: we've got this.

Reinforcing Self-Belief

Over time, "Always good" has become a powerful form of self-motivation. It's a way of telling myself, "You've got this." Even when things don't go as planned, I remind myself of my ability to navigate through it. It boosts my confidence and reminds me to stay focused on what I can control: my effort, my attitude, and my resilience. This philosophy reinforces my self-belief and confidence, and I genuinely believe it can do the same for others.

Inspiring Others

One of the unexpected benefits of this mindset is its effect on those around me. By staying positive, I've found that others are often inspired to do the same. My "Always good" response fosters a culture of optimism and perseverance, showing that no matter what challenges we face, we can handle them with the right mindset. It's a source of inspiration for those around me, motivating them to face their own challenges with a positive outlook.

Conclusion: Always Good, Always Growing

So, why do I always say, "Always good" when someone asks how I'm doing? It reflects my belief that no external challenge can shake my internal resilience. It's a reminder that I can choose how I respond to life's ups and downs.

This mindset doesn't just shape how I approach my work; it's become a way of life. By embracing the "Always good" philosophy, I'm better equipped to tackle challenges, find solutions, and stay grounded even in uncertain times. In the end, I believe this outlook allows us to keep growing and succeeding—no matter what life throws our way.

What about you? How do you stay positive when times are tough?