Once I had a manager who told me I was too positive and that my optimism cast doubt on my credibility. This feedback was given immediately after presenting, an update on a transformation programme I was leading to an Executive at work. A presentation I felt had gone incredibly well. It is moment etched in my memory. I was confused. I am a natural optimist and my positivity in the meeting wasn’t a façade, it was a conscious choice.
The feedback took me by surprise and as I result, I graciously accepted it without challenge. Reflecting I struggled to make sense of it. Can someone really be too positive? Why was I too positive? When I couldn’t find the answers, I consulted trusted colleagues and even walked through my presentation with them. They were as baffled as me.
A week later I got my answer. I was in a meeting discussing potential risks and for each one I already had a sound detailed contingency plan in place. My manager called me after the meeting with feedback. This time he was impressed. He now understood my positive attitude in the Exec meeting the week before. Behind my natural optimism and confidence was a well thought out plan guiding me to the desired outcome.
Nevertheless, the next time I presented my Exec update I decided to switch things around. I maintained my level of optimism but presented the challenges first, the plan to address these challenges next, then my level of confidence with a reason why I felt so confident. I’d impressed my manager again.
This interaction triggered a personal realisation that behind my natural optimism there is always a plan. Depending on the situation the plan can be quickly thought out, existing only in my thoughts or it can be formally drawn up, like the one for my transformation programme.
I realise that my positive attitude and my ability to quickly formulate a plan is most likely a product of both natural and learned behaviour, which I will explore in a future blog. I also recognise that having a plan is not only the key to a positive attitude, but it also provides a plethora of other benefits, including;
Enhancing Self-Confidence – Having a plan in place helps break down larger goals into manageable steps, reducing feelings of uncertainty and anxiety and increasing confidence to achieve objectives.
Encouraging Proactivity – Proactively developing a plan and having a proactive mindset naturally develops a sense of control enhancing problem solving skills through strategic thinking.
Fostering Feelings of Accomplishment – As tasks are ticked off complete it creates a sense of accomplishment, boosting motivation and minimising the risk of procrastination.
Reducing Stress – Breaking down complex situations into a plan and providing a roadmap to navigate challenges helps to visualise the path to success, reducing levels of stress.
I am, currently in the midst of pulling together my personal 2024 plan. The questions I am asking myself are; Where am I now? Where do I want to be or what outcome do I want to achieve by the end of the year? What do I need to do to I get there? Taking time out now and creating this plan will undoubtedly enhance my levels of confidence and positivity about being able to achieve my goals. Are you creating a plan for this year? Do you know where you want to be by the end of 2024? How positive do you feel about being able to achieve your personal goals? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Please comment below and add to the conversation.
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