Find What is Going Right!-Anne Mino

It’s easy to point out what isn’t working and has gone wrong.   Our brains are wired to constantly be on the lookout for threats and have a negative bias.   If all we are doing everyday is sharing the negative how does that make our team members feel and perform?   I am the first to admit that if I am not paying attention and being intentional with my words, negative is where I go.

Why should we focus on what’s going right?

·Open communication both ways, when team members feel appreciated and part of the team, they are more willing to speak up

·  Improved engagement- desire to come to work every day and contribute to a positive environment.  Not living in fear of making mistakes and being “punished”.

·  Great way to implement change!  Instead of punishing those that don’t follow the new way reward those that do.   Soon others follow along when seeing the reward.

·  When there is an issue that needs addressing, team members are more open to hearing and making changes

 How do we start making the shift?

·  Set a reminder on your calendar each day to point out something that is going right., be intentional.  There is opportunity in every interaction, take a few minutes to acknowledge someone. 

·   Keep a running list in your phone.   Note who and when you did acknowledge, if you have a large team this can help remind you if there is someone that was missed

·  Change up your delivery, there are so many options: in person, text, phone call, email, or in a meeting.   Some team members may prefer one method over another, figure out what works for them.

· Remember how you feel when you receive a compliment and pay it forward.

 This time of year can be a bit crazy, don’t forget to focus on taking care of each other.  It’s the little things that add up over time and can make a big difference.   It starts with you making subtle shifts and then it makes a positive impact on your team!

Anne Mino