Will your mindset “make” or “break” you? An optimistic mindset sets the foundation for taking the right actions to achieve success. This applies to all aspects of life – career, relationships, health, finances, etc.

For example, if you focus on why you aren’t getting promoted in your job, your mindset portrays you as a victim with no power over your career. 

On the other hand, if you believe that you can get to the next level in your career, your focus shifts to figuring out what you need to learn, who you need to add to your network, and what steps you need to take to get to the next level.

Here’s an activity to practice shifting your mindset.

Step 1: Pessimistic Mindset

Take a “seat” in the pessimistic mindset chair. Think about this past week, using a bleak and cynical outlook. What were some of the things that annoyed you? What difficulties did you face? What is one thing that made you disappointed in yourself?

Step 2: Optimistic Mindset Chair

Now change “seats” and move into the optimistic mindset chair. In this mindset, view the events in your life as less personal, permanent, and pervasive and instead look at challenges as temporary setbacks and learning experiences. Look for the positive in your life. What were some things that made you feel happy, excited, or joyful this week? What good things happened? What was one thing that made you proud of yourself?

Step 3: Normal Chair

Now come back and take a “seat” in your normal chair to evaluate your experience. What did you notice? How did it feel to embody your pessimistic mindset? How did it feel to embody your optimistic mindset? What did you learn from this exercise? How might you use your insights from this exercise in your daily life?

Over the next week, I encourage you to pay attention to which chair you’re sitting in as your week unfolds.  

If you catch yourself sitting in the negative mindset chair, recognize that you need to change seats. 

If you have difficulty mentally changing seats, get up and move. Physical activity will help you tap into your inner optimist more easily, thanks to the chemical changes it stimulates in your brain.

Wishing you the best!

Contact me with your questions about individual coaching, group coaching, talent development, and speaking engagements.