Did you know positivity is a leadership superpower? A study by Shawn Achor and Michelle Gielan, published in the Harvard Business Review found employees of optimistic leaders report a 23% higher job satisfaction and are 31% more productive. And leaders who maintain an optimistic outlook are 40% more likely to receive a promotion over the next year compared to their pessimistic peers. Not only that, authentic optimism is contagious. If you want to inspire and engage your

teams, genuine positivity will help you do it.

But not every strong leader has a naturally “rosy” outlook. And in trying times, maintaining optimism is something many leaders struggle with. The good news is that no matter your natural disposition or circumstances, there are simple ways to strengthen your sense of optimism:

1. Shift Focus to Solutions

Try this: When facing challenges, consciously direct attention to potential solutions rather than dwelling on problems. Ask, “What can we do next?” or “What are our options?”

Outcome: This helps build a forward-looking mindset and encourages constructive action.

2. Focus on Learning and Growth

Try this: Instead of viewing failures as losses, see them as learning opportunities. When something doesn’t go as planned, ask, “What can we learn from this?”

Outcome: This helps build resilience and a growth-oriented mindset, essential for fostering optimism.

3. Celebrate Small Wins

Try this: Regularly acknowledge and celebrate progress, no matter how small. Recognize team accomplishments and highlight steps toward larger goals.

Outcome: Celebrating small wins can shift attention away from obstacles and reinforce progress.

4. Practice Self-Compassion

Try this: Be kind to yourself when things don’t go as planned. Recognize that setbacks are part of the journey, and avoid harsh self-criticism.

Outcome: Self-compassion allows you to recover quickly from mistakes and maintain a positive approach to leadership challenges. You’ll also model this approach to your team.

By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you’ll gradually cultivate optimism as a skill you, too, can use as a superpower.