Encouraging Pure Possibility

In the current climate in many organizations, there seems to be an ever-growing legion of naysayers and grumblers. Negative attitudes can bring whole legions of employees down (remember the saying that “one bad apple can spoil the whole bunch”?).

Although a leader isn’t expected to be Pollyanna, they may find it important to keep morale up. There is a way of taking negative statements and turning them around into pure possibility; a place most of us love to visit.

This technique, often used by coaches, doesn’t always work to bring spirits up (the real “Negative Nancy’s” may stomp out of the room), but it can sometimes change an otherwise unconstructive conversation into something more positive and open a window in a negative conversation into hope and possibility. It can also break through negative judgments and assumptions. Here are some examples of the technique:

Downer comment: “We can’t possibly accomplish that.”
Your response: “If it was possible, how would you do it?”

Downer comment: “It would take too long to do that.”
Your response: “If it takes too long, how can you make it short?”

Downer comment: “He has so much going for him, but isn’t performing well.”
Your response: “If that individual isn’t performing well, how can you (or we) help him to perform better?”

Downer comment: “I can’t talk to him .”
Your response: “If you could talk to him, what would you say?”

Downer comment: “I don’t have time in my day for that.”
Your response: “If you had time in your day, how much could you spare?”

You get the picture. Try raising some spirits, hope, and possibility in your organization using this technique!

Continue reading here: Reflecting On Your 360 Degree Feedback

Was this article helpful?

0 0

Readers' Questions

  • mackenzie cameron
    How to get pure possibility?
    4 months ago
  • To get pure possibility, you can follow these steps:
    1. Believe in yourself: Cultivate a positive mindset and have faith in your abilities. Trust that you have the potential to achieve anything you set your mind to.
    2. Embrace uncertainty: Be open to new experiences and be willing to step out of your comfort zone. Don't shy away from taking risks or trying new things.
    3. Let go of limitations: Release self-imposed limitations and societal expectations. Embrace the belief that anything is possible and that you are not bound by any preconceived notions.
    4. Set clear intentions: Determine what it is that you truly desire and set clear goals. Clarify your intentions and visualize yourself achieving them.
    5. Practice mindfulness: Be present in the moment and cultivate a sense of awareness. This will help you recognize opportunities and see potential where others may not.
    6. Surround yourself with positive influences: Surround yourself with individuals who uplift and inspire you. Seek out mentors or supportive communities that can help you tap into your full potential.
    7. Take action: Pure possibility is not achieved by just dreaming; it requires taking concrete steps towards your goals. Break down your big goals into smaller actionable tasks and start working on them.
    8. Learn from failures: Embrace failure as a learning experience and an opportunity for growth. Reframe setbacks as stepping stones towards success and use the lessons learned to refine your approach.
    9. Practice gratitude: Express gratitude for the opportunities and possibilities that come your way. Gratitude shifts your focus towards abundance and attracts more positive experiences into your life.
    10. Stay persistent and resilient: Pursuing pure possibility requires perseverance. Stay committed to your goals and keep pushing forward, even in the face of challenges or setbacks.