I was sitting in a café in Exeter, England with a friend after a business meeting I had just completed. We were discussing the state of the economy and the world of work generally. It is quite clear that there are many problems in businesses at the moment with uncertainty caused by the general economic fragility of the western world. It is sad to note the impact this has on people and the dampening of enthusiasm when we live in a world that has advanced so far. Significant blame is laid at the door or our national leaders, and those who lead our organisations, about their inability to act or do what is considered by others as the ‘right’ thing.
The person I was speaking with is normally upbeat, and this was no exception which was great. In a world where our news seems to survive on gloom and troubled stories it is always refreshing to share time with someone who has a positive view of life. This is no false ‘think positive’ attitude that ignores the realities of life – more of an approach that focusses on looking at the up side of any situation until it is clear that action is needed to correct a poor course of action. It is also quite refreshing as so many seem to complain when things could be much worse.
I have found that people who are constantly taking the negative view of things either end up lonely or mix with people who also take a pessimistic view of life. Spending time with negative people can be so draining.
- So in your business are you taking a positive approach even though things could be better or are you declaring daily gloom?
- What impact do you think this has on any potential client or customer?
- What impact do you think this may be having on the people who are near and dear to you in business and in our wider life?
You will know the answer – and if it is the answer you would like. If a little more spring is needed in your step can I suggest you make the effort to do so. You will feel better and so will those around you……and one of those may well be an important new customer.
To your positive successes,
Peter
