Find What is Going Right!

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!