Category Archive: Optimism

The True Value of Persistent Problems and Nagging Distress

Problems are spiny gifts wrapped in sandpaper. It’s foolish to wish for problem-free leadership. The four benefits of persistent problems: #1. The prospect of becoming your best self. “Leadership is a matter of… Continue reading

How Imagination Ruins Leaders

Imagination destroys some and beats others down. Phantoms pollute thinking and poison reality. When imagination ruins you: #1. A phantom boss – that brings out your best – poisons your relationship with the… Continue reading

A Premortem: Reverse Positive Thinking for Success

Do premortems. A postmortem is too late. Gary Klein introduced the idea of premortems. A premortem is reverse positive thinking. Instead of imagining success, imagine failure. What might go wrong: A year from now,… Continue reading

3 Ways to Overcome “That Won’t Work”

Naysayers are often right – especially when they’re roadblocks. “What works,” emerges AFTER you try. We have a delusional ability to believe we’re right when, in truth, we have nothing to support our… Continue reading

Paranoid Optimism – Courage to Shine a Light into the Darkness

Optimism doesn’t serve you well when it prevents you from acknowledging dark realities. We don’t need leaders spewing blind optimism. It’s better to name the challenge, craft a response, and take action. Successful… Continue reading

How to Think Negative and Still Succeed

Even Eeyore is right sometimes. Overly optimistic leaders: Minimize challenges. Fail to anticipate problems. Throw in the towel when it stays dark too long. Stockdale:  James Stockdale – former P.O.W. – told Jim… Continue reading