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“Brain scientists say if you cultivate a positive attitude, you will live longer and be a sharper leader.”- Forbes Magazine

I recently spent a weekend with my family celebrating my father’s 90th birthday. As we laughed and reminisced about his wonderful life, I was struck by his sense of optimism, outlook on the future, and joie de vivre. I couldn’t help but recognize that his way of looking at the world has played a big part in keeping him healthy, mobile (still working out a few times a week), productive, and fun to be with. There really is power in looking at situations with a “glass half-full” approach.

Optimism helps to promote the production of the neurotransmitter dopamine, which in turn makes us happy, increases motivation, and enhances our willingness to take risks. Research has shown that it also boosts performance on the job, increases success, and improves resilience in the face of setbacks.  Optimists are also better at handling stressful situations. Researchers at Concordia University's Department of Psychology have found that the “stress hormone” cortisol tends to be more stable in people with a positive outlook, meaning its less likely to surge when times get tough. Negative attitudes can have an opposite effect.

With this in mind, think about the impact optimism has in the workplace. As we enter the last quarter of the year, with just a few weeks remaining to improve results, finish projects, and accomplish our 2018 goals, leaders should reflect on their own mindsets and consider its impact on others. Leading with a positive outlook helps to increase productivity, while also improving the happiness of you and your team.

Things for you to consider as you look to close out the year with the best possible results:

Communicate your vision for the future: Help others understand the reason their work is important, recognize their impact, and clarify the expected outcome and why it is meaningful. Optimistic leaders inspire their employees, clients, and customers, by sharing their confidence that in the end all will be well.

Be honest and realistic: Being an optimistic leader does not take away from the need to be honest and authentic. It’s okay to acknowledge potential challenges, but important to also see and share the potential for a positive outcome. Teams will follow the emotions of their leader – your role is to encourage them to believe that you will help them achieve success.

Look ahead: Keep the focus on future opportunities; learn from the past to improve outcomes while moving forward. Leading is about showing good faith and seeing positive opportunities that lie ahead. This attitude helps to attract the right people, makes them want to work with you, and motivates them to be more productive.

Share your optimism with others and see increased energy across your team!

Learn how to transform your thinking to be a more optimistic leader by contacting LSR ADVISORS at Leslie@lsradvisors.net, or visit www.lsradvisors.net for more information about my services.