THE IDEA: While optimism is a very helpful attitude for success, research shows that it needs to tempered at times. The field of positive psychology, with leaders like Dr. Martin Seligman, has demonstrated that an optimistic attitude can lead to higher levels of success for people in a wide variety of activities. In fact, Seligman and others have developed training … [Read more...] about Be a Flexible Optimist
goal-setting
The Fulfillment of Noble Pursuit
THE IDEA: When we water down our dreams we limit our performance and actually insult our own integrity. Deep in your heart you want something – in a big way. You have a vision of the ideal you want, and you are passionate about it. Yet, many of us hesitate to say it out loud. Rather than boldly saying what we really want, we will instead settle for something … [Read more...] about The Fulfillment of Noble Pursuit
Stretch Goals, Boards, & Banks
One of the difficulties in setting Almost Impossible Goals is trying to figure out how to communicate them to people who just don’t get it. I encourage you to share this article on The Power of Goals with those who have not been exposed. But, let’s face it, even after that – some people just don’t understand. If that is your situation, then I suggest you not push the … [Read more...] about Stretch Goals, Boards, & Banks
Big Happy Audacious Goals
When I talk with people about setting BIG Almost Impossible Goals, I will sometimes hear “Oh yeah, just like ‘Big Hairy Audacious Goals’ in that book (Built to Last) by Jim Collins & Jerry Porras! BHAGs!” To which I say “Sort of.” The “Hairy” in BHAGs is “scary” – like taking a big risk. Hairy, scary goals might be appropriate sometimes – but research shows that they … [Read more...] about Big Happy Audacious Goals
Set Your 2017 Goals Now!
Happy 2017! As is my annual tradition, I will start the new year out with a reminder of my advice from an article I wrote in The Washington Post a few years back: “Set Goals, Not Resolutions.” And also see my full article on The Power of Goals at this link. If it’s time for you to set those once-a-year resolutions that you know will fade by March, then this article is … [Read more...] about Set Your 2017 Goals Now!