POSITIVITY & LEADERSHIPtheygohandinhand

by Russ Webb, Executive Director - Bay Area Apartment Association

OOPTIMISM…it’s the one incredible trait that so many leaders share. The power of positive thinking has been a topic of conversation and research for many years. It is a concept that suggests that the way we think about ourselves, our situations, and our surroundings has a significant impact on our actions and outcomes. This is especially true for leaders who are responsible for motivating and inspiring their teams to achieve their goals.

Being a positive leader means that you approach challenges with an optimistic attitude and focus on opportunities rather than obstacles. It means that you believe in the potential of your team and encourage them to think creatively and take risks. Positive thinking can help leaders foster a sense of empowerment and create a culture of innovation, collaboration, and growth. Teams watch their leaders for inspiration, and those that create a positive atmosphere tend to be the ones who make a greater impact.

So is positivity just a ‘feel good’ way of leading? Far from it. Research has shown that positive thinking can have a measurable impact on leadership and organizational outcomes. A study by the University of Michigan found that positive leaders were more likely to create an environment of trust and cooperation, which led to increased productivity and job satisfaction among employees. Positive leaders were also more likely to develop innovative solutions to problems and inspire their teams to take risks and think outside the box. Peo- ple follow those who create opportunities for taking chances, as with risk comes reward and often recognition.

Positive thinking can also help leaders manage stress and overcome challenges. When faced with difficult situations, positive leaders are more likely to focus on solutions rather than dwell on problems. I’ve been lucky to work with some amazing leaders and one trait they all share is fixing a problem instead of focusing on who or what caused it. Those who focus on answers can see the end result, even with many obstacles in the way. This style of leadership inspires others around to do the same, and their ability to not focus on blame makes their followers even more loyal.

Optimism isn’t always easy, and like any character trait it can take work to become the norm. As a leader, you can focus on the things you are thankful for, and that simple change can shift your perspective from negativity to positivity. Surrounding yourself with positive people and messages will continue to reinforce your optimistic outcomes, and enthusiasm can be the most contagious of all leadership traits.

The first choice you make every day when you open your eyes is what kind of day it’s going to be. Since life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it…choose it make it a great day!