“We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses.” – Abraham Lincoln

Those who understand the wisdom of the above quote are able to develop high performers, a positive team environment, and continually adapt their style to bring out the best in others. Successful leaders who seek the positive in others can attract and retain people, achieve results, and make the world a better place. Seeking the positive does not make you Polly Anna, but it does make you an uncommon and accomplished leader.

Positive leaders who have real success build a strong company by implementing the following six practices.

1. Focus on the Bold Goals.

This provides a sense of purpose and direction for the team and prompts others to think creatively, push boundaries, and go the extra mile to achieve the desired outcomes.

2. Help Others See the Vision.

Leaders who have a bold vision and can communicate that vision to others can attract great talent. People who want to work hard and know that their hard work has a positive impact tend to make the best contributions within a company.

3. Reward Achievements.

When you acknowledge success well, it can lead to satisfaction and fulfillment. Whether through verbal praise, a bonus check, or a simple thank-you note, these gestures of recognition communicate that their contributions are valued, and efforts do not go unnoticed. As a result, staff feel more engaged, satisfied, and committed to their work.

4. Recognize the Performance, Not Personality.

While it’s important to hire team members who fit well within a company’s culture, personality traits ultimately play a secondary role in achieving organizational goals. By focusing on performance, you bring your team together around a shared purpose and can foster an environment that encourages high-quality work and accountability.

5. See the Shortcomings of Others with Humor and Humanity.

We are all human and imperfect. As a leader, you can be the one to ignite more humanity at work. This is the time to release judgment and instead focus on ways to help embrace a weakness by directing a team member on how to become stronger in a particular area. Learn how to leverage your weaknesses.

6. Celebrating the Uniqueness of Each Individual.

No matter the age or background, there is always something new to gain and explore from one another. Whether talent or perspective, we all bring something valuable to the table. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to human beings, and that is what makes us all so wonderfully interesting.

“Of course, there must be lots of Magic in the world,” he said wisely one day, “but people don’t know what it is like or how to make it. Perhaps the beginning is just to say nice things are going to happen until you make them happen. I am going to try and experiment.” – Frances Hodgson Burnett

Be positive and create a better experience for all.

Bobbie