The Power of Positive Leadership

“Positive leadership” comes from those who have faith in the future.

Approach life positively if you want to accomplish anything significant. When you face inevitable challenges, positive leadership is especially valuable. Positive leadership doesn’t come from pretense or fake optimism. It comes from having faith in the future and sufficient resolve to find solutions to difficult problems.

Duke University business professors Manju Puri and David Robinson find that hopeful people put more effort into their work. They earn more and do better in politics and in sports. Those who see the bright side strive to envision and create a better future even as others grumble or seek to subvert more optimistic plans.

On the other hand, optimists have so much faith in a bright future that they may ignore inconvenient facts. They persuade themselves that if they only work tirelessly, they can create a happier tomorrow.

Positive – but balanced – leaders work to create a sense of hope. Their faith in the future enables them to attain their goals. They acknowledge that pessimism prevents some employees and institutions from achieving their potential...