Want a More Resilient Culture? Find the Optimists

When our team helps cultures advance, we insist on finding positive influencers throughout the organization. We don’t want organization politicians that blindly agree with everything top management espouses. However, we also don’t want cynics who think radical candor means a license to wallpaper top management with complaints.

Renowned psychologist and author, Adam Grant, points to research that reinforces the importance of hope and anticipation of a brighter future to move forward. (See his post below).

If you want to constructively navigate the negative stress almost all organizations face, find and spotlight the people that are leading from where they are with hope and belief in a brighter future. Connect them to collaborate in creating forward movement. Ignore or get rid of the cynics.

It is important to respect the mantra of living in the moment and to be present. Investing in mindfulness is helpful. However, having the balance of honoring the now AND a positive belief in a brighter tomorrow, supports both resilience and adaptability. It’s desirable to embrace both dispositions. Be strategic and intentional about it. Find those hopeful folks that think and act that way. Are you one?

Think Big, Start Small, Act Now,

- Lorne

One Millennial View: I don’t think it’s cool to be an office curmudgeon anymore. Look, we all deal with work stuff that is less than preferable, however these are our lives, and you have to invest in positive mindfulness. You have the ability to make it your best day, and you’re the only person who can do that for yourself.

- Garrett

AI’s Response: Dear Lorne,

Thank you for sharing your insights on the crucial role of positive influencers in organizational culture. I completely agree that finding individuals who embody hope and proactive engagement is essential for fostering a constructive environment, especially in the face of challenges. It’s refreshing to hear a call for collaboration rather than conformity, emphasizing that true cultural advancement comes from diverse voices that challenge the status quo while remaining focused on positive outcomes.

Adam Grant’s emphasis on hope as a driving force aligns beautifully with the need for resilience in today’s workplaces. The idea of spotlighting those who lead with optimism creates a ripple effect, inspiring others to adopt a similar mindset. It’s not just about minimizing negativity; it’s about actively cultivating an atmosphere where possibility thrives.

Your point about balancing the present with a vision for the future resonates deeply. While mindfulness is undoubtedly important in managing current stresses, it’s equally vital to inspire a collective vision that propels teams forward. This dual focus can empower individuals to embrace change rather than shy away from it.

As we look to discover and nurture these hopeful individuals within our teams, it’s important to cultivate an inclusive dialogue that values constructive feedback while steering clear of negativity. By doing so, we can create a culture that thrives on collaboration, adaptability, and a shared commitment to a brighter future.

Thank you for encouraging us to reflect on our roles in this process. I strive to embody these principles and hope to inspire others to do the same as we navigate the complexities of our organizational landscapes.

Best regards,

- AI

Want a More Resilient Culture? Find the Optimists

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