Daily Leadership Thought #190 – Be The Change You Want To See…
We all have the power to change our lives and the world around us for the better.
When asked to provide criticism of what is not working in their organization, most people can provide a litany of complaints and problems. There seems to be no shortage of opinions on how things should or could be better. This phenomenon doesn’t just take place in the business world. It is a facet of everyday life. For some reason, despite our relative wealth, comfort, and prosperity compared to previous generations, most of us still view things as they are not, rather than being thankful for what they are. This attitude is evident in the cottage industry that has become the self-help movement. I can no longer count the number of people I meet who admit to being “lost” and/or unhappy with their current existence.
The problem with deficit thinking is that it stunts your perspective. Instead of allowing you to see the world full of possibility and opportunity (which it is), you begin to define yourself and circumstances in smaller ways than necessary. When you are a collection of individuals, as all organizations are, this mindset becomes even more problematic. Just imagine how much positive energy and creativity seeps out of businesses every day. We also all know what this also does to families.
Relying on others to resolve your issues and bring you joy places you at a disadvantage. You relinquish control over your destiny. Even the best-intentioned leaders, colleagues, spouses, and friends will only ever get an incomplete grade in this regard. They’ll try hard, but they can’t read your mind or fully know your needs.
Accountability for your success and happiness starts with you. Only you can control your attitude and reaction to what life throws at you. We have heard it many times before, but “one person’s problem is another’s opportunity.” Every day, we get to make a choice. Do we become a force for positive change and make the best of our circumstances? Or, do we become a malcontent, with little to show for our efforts except further disappointment and angst? Obstacles and adversity will always be with us. It is an unpleasant fact.
There are no perfect leaders, organizations, marriages, or friendships. We are all a work in progress. No one lives a perfectly charmed life devoid of difficulty. The question is and always will be, “What are you going to do about it?” Do not succumb to the chronic disappointment and victim mentality that prevails among the masses. Be the change you want to see in the world and in yourself. Take full responsibility for your career, relationships, and life. Everyone can tell you why things don’t or won’t work out. Few of us tackle these issues head-on and change things for the better.
