Tips for Seeing What’s Working, Strong and Possible

I consider myself an optimist. Yet, all around me, there are exhortations to “problem solve” and “fix what’s not working.” Admittedly, it seeps into my psyche; I see what’s lacking more quickly than what’s working. Am I really the optimist I claim to be? That’s why I jumped at the chance to interview Dr. Kathryn Cramer when her new book Lead Positive: What Highly Effective Leaders See, Say, and Do published. Reading about “Asset Based Thinking” (“ABT”) really did cause me to shift the way I view the world.

This book had a profound impact on me; I’ve found myself reexamining the way I look at things, not only from a leadership standpoint, but from a personal standpoint as well. I’m continually asking, “Where’s the asset in this situation?” In fact, I loved the idea of ABT so  much that I immediately bought Kathy’s first book that highlighted the concept – Change the Way You See Everything through Asset-Based Thinking.

And, in an effort to spread the word about this powerful mindset, I wrote about it everywhere.  In addition to writing about the book here on The People Equation, I also wrote about my interview with Kathy on my other media platforms.

Here’s a summary of the Lead Positive Series, and where you can read them:

HR Answers.com

One of the first posts I wrote for this series is the article How to Use Asset-Based Thinking in Your Leadership, over at my HR Answers expert page. It’s a good place to start to get a feel for how ABT intersects with your role as a leader.

The People Equation

Leaders set the tone for their organization’s culture. It’s an uphill battle to remain positive, but it can be done. Learn why with All Leaders Shape Their Company’s Cultural Mindset

The Huffington Post

Over at Huffington Post, I feature my interview with Kathy where we discuss how leaders need to redirect their attention to what’s working, strong and possible in Where Does the Spotlight of Your Leadership Attention Shine?

Smartblog on Leadership

Your leadership talents are as unique as your autograph. Kathy Cramer calls this “signature presence.” I outline five questions you can ask yourself and others to help you determine those distinctive qualities that define your leadership. See more at Is your leadership presence a true reflection of who you really are?

As a final note, I want to give a shout-out to Becky Robinson and Team Buzz Builder from Weaving Influence. This team definitely lives up to their mission to, “work together to make a difference by sharing buzz about messages that matter.” The reason I am able to connect with amazing thought-leaders like Kathy Cramer is due to the tireless work that Becky’s team does on behalf of their clients.

Disclosure: some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning if you click the link and make a purchase (looking is free), then I will get a small commission. This does not increase the price of the product you purchase, and I only recommend resources that I think will be of value to you.