Focus on the positive
Strategy for Our Times Part 7
Image description: Close-up image of six geese flying together in formation. Photo by Gary Bendig on Unsplash
We often fail to grasp that we have a great deal of agency in what we pay attention to and how we talk about the challenges we face, and that this can shift our own experience and that of those around us. As in the legend of the two wolves, we decide who to feed.
How can you make an energetic shift from focusing on what you don’t want to what you do want? Uplifting bright spots can be powerful, as can a gratitude practice. As a leader, how you describe an organization’s challenges can make a dramatic difference in the team’s belief that they can overcome them. Practice positive communication.
This may feel too difficult on certain days. It is human for leaders to have moments and days when it is hard to maintain optimism and hope. Just remember that hope is a practice, not a character trait. Reconnect with people, writers, art, faith rituals, nature, or other sources of inspiration. Learn ways to reframe your thoughts.
Geese flying in formation are a wonderful metaphor for an organization that has a strategic plan to align their work, as noted in this speech by Angeles Arrien. By flying in formation, geese add 71% to their flying range. And importantly, geese take turns flying in the point position, which requires the most energy. So, keep the faith and be optimistic, but also allow others to rotate into leadership when your own ability to stay positive flags. It will return over time, and there will be new opportunities to lead.