I think we often use the word "Vision" or "Visionary" to describe one of the most important aspects of a successful leader. However, this quality is more than simply anticipating the future; it's having the ability to credibly paint a picture of its potential by stimulating faith and belief in our ability to influence what it looks like.
I really appreciate the optimistic spin to the name to start off the whole write up. This is perfect and a great rundown of what I think most leaders of all personality types face weekly as we try to figure out what our team needs from us the most!
I appreciate Jim Collins' summary of his lunch date with Vice-Admiral James Stockdale. Admiral/Professor Stockdale tells him that the prisoners of war (POWs) that broke first were the optimists (Collins. 2001). This powerful insight is something I have taken with me. I tend to lean more towards negativity bias than optimism bias. My aspirations though, are always towards being a realist.
Life can be hard enough. I don't need people padding their actions and/or verbiage.
Great post. I weigh this paradox frequently.
I think we often use the word "Vision" or "Visionary" to describe one of the most important aspects of a successful leader. However, this quality is more than simply anticipating the future; it's having the ability to credibly paint a picture of its potential by stimulating faith and belief in our ability to influence what it looks like.
I’ve always called this “cynical optimism.” And I’ve expressed it as “hope for the best, prepare for the worst, and expect something in between.”
I really appreciate the optimistic spin to the name to start off the whole write up. This is perfect and a great rundown of what I think most leaders of all personality types face weekly as we try to figure out what our team needs from us the most!
great post - in my coaching practice, I encourage leaders to be an "optimistic realist!" see https://www.bcedx.com/p/be-an-optimistic-realist 😎🛠️
great post - in my coaching practice, I encourage leaders to be an "optimistic realist!" https://www.bcedx.com/p/be-an-optimistic-realist
I love this concept! I’ve always referred to it in myself as being a realist.
You absolutely need these people on your team.
They’re the ones who can identify flaws in an argument and catch the missed details that are crucial for making an initiative work.
Unfortunately, too often, these individuals are viewed as difficult or as problems rather than being recognized for the assets they truly are.
Good morning,
What an insightful post.
I appreciate Jim Collins' summary of his lunch date with Vice-Admiral James Stockdale. Admiral/Professor Stockdale tells him that the prisoners of war (POWs) that broke first were the optimists (Collins. 2001). This powerful insight is something I have taken with me. I tend to lean more towards negativity bias than optimism bias. My aspirations though, are always towards being a realist.
Life can be hard enough. I don't need people padding their actions and/or verbiage.
Candid speech is appreciated.
Thank you for your time.