Why I’m Not Worried, Positively

Today, I happily watched almost twenty employees graduate from our Investment in Excellence training from the Pacific Institute. Additionally, I was in several meetings where significant progress was made in cases where progress has been elusive, or planned for some far off date when nearly everyone working here will be retired.

What did the training and the meetings have in common? They were built on the premise of positive self-talk and self-efficacy – we’re going to do this (something remarkable), because we say we’re going to do it. Notice the emphasis on “self” – self-talk, self-efficacy – wonderfully self-inflicted empowerment. We don’t accept the reasons why not – we just keep moving with positive steps forward and even when it’s two steps forward and one step back, we look at it as a temporary setback. It’s not failure; it’s simply the next (and probably necessary) step before success.

Having a positive attitude (moving toward something), even feels better than the alternative of having a negative attitude (moving away from something); if for no other reason than we can control our movement, effort, or initiative toward something. When we’re retreating, avoiding, or moving away from something, we’re not in control – not in control of our own future, not in control of our own destiny, and that’s not good at all.

In a recent Winner’s Circle message, Lou Tice of the Pacific Institute wrote, “When you choose to respond to the world in positive, productive ways, it is easy to predict a positive, productive future - one you create yourself, day by day.” Friends, the best way to predict the future is to create it; and doing it with a positive attitude is, well…easier. Yes, the secret’s out – being positive is easier.

Okay, so why I’m not worried? Two reasons – the second one first. Because today I witnessed people ready or readying themselves to attack issues, to solve problems, to overcome obstacles by moving forward – positively. It was sort of magical. Secondly, the first reason that I’m not worried is that it doesn’t help. Another secret exposed – worrying doesn’t help…and it’s harder.

So, I guess that means we know the secret to a more productive, fulfilling, enriched, etc. life, both professional and personal. Be positive. Don’t worry. It’s easy…er. Yikes! Who knew?