#137: New Years Inspiration
The Communicate to Influence Blog
Today is 28th December 2024. As we approach a new year, it is always good to do so with some inspiration. To this end, I am reading ‘Secrets to Success’, a book written by Irish entrepreneur and SME mentor Sean Gallagher, whom I have been fortunate enough to get to know over the past year. It is only fitting that this final blog of the year takes a lesson from Sean’s book which I hope will be of value to you.
An early chapter in the book lists the top 10 traits of traits of successful entrepreneurs with #1 being: “Having belief in ones self and being optimistic by nature”. The following quote from Winston Churchill was used to frame the paragraph:
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity. An optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty."
This quote encapsulates a fundamental truth about human perception and the choices we make in response to our circumstances. As we reflect on the past year and set our intentions for the future, it’s essential to consider how this perspective can shape our lives.
Professor Shawn Achor of Harvard University in his excellent TED talk said “it’s not necessarily reality that shapes us, but the lens through which our brain views the world that shapes our reality”. Take a moment and think about the ramifications of this sentence; two people can be in the same situation (ie equivalent realities), but view them differently and therefore respond in different ways, resulting in different outcomes.
Pessimism, characterized by a focus on obstacles and setbacks, can often cloud our judgment. When faced with challenges, a pessimist may quickly identify potential pitfalls, dwelling on what could go wrong. This viewpoint not only breeds anxiety but also stifles creativity and innovation.
In contrast, an optimist approaches difficulties with a mindset that seeks solutions and opportunities for growth. By reframing challenges as stepping stones rather than stumbling blocks, we empower ourselves to navigate life’s uncertainties with resilience and hope.
There are so many ways of reframing this concept. The Chinese character for crisis is made of two separate characters; danger and opportunity. The Chinese know that in every crisis there is an opportunity, however if you only focus on the danger, you will miss the opportunity.
As we embark on this new year, it is vital to look for the opportunity in every challenge; to cultivate an optimistic outlook. This doesn’t mean ignoring reality or glossing over genuine difficulties; rather, it involves acknowledging challenges while actively seeking the silver linings within them.
I have supported Liverpool since I was a child, since Kenny Dalglish moved from Celtic in 1977. Our current manager, Arne Slot is, in footballing terms, a professor. His in-match analytics are incredible – it’s not fluke that the team is performing so well. In a recent interview, he commented that every strategy leaves an opportunity for the other team. Whatever the opposition does, there is a response that can take advantage of the weakness inherent within the strategy. What he failed to say is that you have to be smart enough to identify the weakness if you are to take advantage of it, and this is of course where he excels.
In practical terms, as we approach the new year and the challenges that it will offer us, our approach to embracing optimism involves actionable steps. There are still a few days to go, so if you haven’t already done it, set realistic goals that reflect personal aspirations, a commitment to resilience and a readiness to learn and adapt. Be sure to celebrate small victories along the way as each step forward reinforces a positive mindset and builds momentum.
Following on from Blog #136, surround yourself with positive influences. Engage with those who uplift and encourage you and seek environments that foster collaboration and support. Positivity is contagious as is negativity; be conscientious of which you surround yourself with and foster.
Additionally, practicing gratitude can enhance our optimistic perspective. Taking time each day to reflect on what we are thankful for can transform our mindset, allowing us to appreciate the opportunities that lie within even the most challenging situations.
In conclusion, as we welcome the new year, let us choose to be optimists. Churchill’s words serve as a powerful reminder that our perceptions shape our experiences. By recognizing the opportunities within difficulties, we not only enhance our own lives but also contribute to a more positive and hopeful world which let’s face it, is very much needed! Commit to seeing the potential for growth and success in every challenge, and approach the new year with courage, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the possibilities that await you. Here’s to a year filled with hope, opportunity, and the transformative power of optimism! Happy New Year!!
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