Optimism: Being an Intentionally Positive and Unconventional Leader

While no one would argue that 2020 made it difficult for even optimists to feel positive, one role of the career professional is to generate hope. If the client does not feel good, it is a sign of growth, and that is good! If the client doesn't see a means to moving ahead at work, it is time for change and together the resources can be tapped. Being intentionally optimistic serves both the self and the world, which includes the people who need career professionals the most.

~ Melanie Reinersman, M.A., insights@careerdevelopmentalliance.com

Photo by zhang xiaojun on Unsplash

FOCUS ON: Choosing Joy

Fear, stress, and restlessness are dominating life, but little, positive “grains of happiness” can still be found. Unprecedented times require radical choices. Choosing joy over and over, can help our brain rewire in a positive way. It is not only an antidote for individuals, but for humanity as well. Read more from Happify.

WHAT OTHER CAREER DEVELOPMENT PROFESSIONALS ARE SAYING: Unconventional Leadership

Personality assessment can help you discover language to understanding differences. You need more than one piece to the puzzle and at a earlier age. Kristin A. Sherry, career development coach and creator of YouMap career profile, says she is an unconventional leader because, “I help maximize people-- adults and children... its a loss when people don't realize the unique gifts they bring to the world.” She decided back in college that she was going to better herself. The default principles of intentional leaders start with purpose as the cornerstone, followed by belief and persistence, desire, passion then intentional action. Listen to the full interview with Kristen Sherry on the BuzzSprout podcast.

FOR PRACTITIONERS: Optimism Theory

Whether optimism is a built-in trait (i.e., personality disposition) or the way people perceive and interpret events (i.e., explanatory model), there is significant evidence that optimism plays a role in promoting mental health and well-being. Activities, worksheets and exercises for use with clients can be the starting point of knowing the way behind the negative feelings and the steps to take to instill optimism. Read more from Positive Psychology.

JOB SEARCHING: Change Your Frame of Mind

Thinking positively while searching for a job tends to help people interview more effectively, receive higher salaries, and obtain a variety of career options. The job seeker could develop optimism by no longer worrying, learning to be more self-reliant, and viewing rejection differently. Read more about changing your thought process.

TOP TEN: Ways Leaders Express Positivity

Focusing on solutions (rather than dwelling on problems), aiming for excellence, and showing appreciation are just a few of the ways leaders are successful as a result of their positivity. They believe positive thoughts, attitudes and outcomes grow into successes. Read all ten from Inc.com

QUOTES

“Optimism is a choice. Kindness is a choice. Giving is a choice. Respect is a choice. Whatever choice you make makes you. Choose wisely.” - Roy T. Bennett

“Part of being optimistic is keeping one's head pointed toward the sun, one's feet moving forward.” - Nelson Mandela

"For myself, I am an optimist - it does not seem to be much use to be anything else." - Winston S. Churchill

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