How Managers and Leaders Apply Positive Intelligence® to Address Daily Challenges

Successful leaders recognise the need to cultivate a positive and empowered workforce, no doubt about it. There are many ways to do it, but one powerful tool that can help managers achieve this is Positive Intelligence® (PQ).

A term coined by Shirzad Chamine, Stanford University lecturer, doctor of neuroscience, and MBA in psychology, refers to the ability to shift your mindset to a positive and empowering perspective to overcome challenges and enhance personal growth.

Chamine drew inspiration from the works of leading psychologists, such as Martin Seligman and Daniel Goleman. He developed the PQ framework, at the core of which is understanding and managing the balance between the "Sage" and the "Saboteurs" residing in our minds. There are nine distinctive Saboteurs including Judge, Victim, Avoider, Controller, Stickler, Pleaser, Avoider, Achiever, and Restless.

Let’s explore how business managers and leaders can practically apply Positive Intelligence® to address daily challenges, motivate teams, and drive organisational success.

Overcoming Daily Challenges

Managers often face a myriad of challenges, from tight deadlines to solving relationship issues to unexpected setbacks. Positive Intelligence® equips leaders with the mental resilience needed to navigate these challenges effectively. In a scenario where a project encounters unforeseen obstacles, a manager with a high PQ quotient will reframe the situation, and focus on the opportunities for growth and learning rather than dwelling on setbacks. This positive mindset not only fosters a more optimistic work environment but also allows for more creative problem-solving.

Enhancing Team Dynamics

Positive Intelligence® is contagious. When a manager embodies a positive mindset, it has a ripple effect on the team due to the energy that floats between us. Most people appreciate being in a team where a manager acknowledges and appreciates its members for their efforts. A simple act of positivity can create a collaborative and supportive team culture. Team members are more likely to be engaged and motivated when they feel valued and recognized. By fostering a positive team dynamic, managers can enhance overall productivity and creativity within the team which enhances commitment and job satisfaction.

Motivating Teams

Motivating a diverse team with varying skill sets and personalities is not always easy. Positive Intelligence® enables managers to tailor their motivational strategies to individual team members. For instance, understanding that different team members respond differently to praise, a savvy manager can leverage PQ to identify each team member's strengths and motivations and speak directly to their Saboteurs to motivate them and lift them up. This knowledge allows the manager to provide targeted feedback and recognition, thereby boosting individual and collective morale.

Developing High-Performance Teams

Positive Intelligence® is not only about overcoming challenges but also about developing high-performance teams. A manager with a keen understanding of PQ can identify areas of improvement for team members without demoralizing them. By framing feedback constructively and positively, managers can inspire continuous growth and development. By being aware of the strongest Saboteurs, they can tailor their feedback accordingly. This approach fosters a culture of learning and adaptability within the team, contributing to the long-term success of the organization.

Driving Organisational Success

Ultimately, the application of Positive Intelligence® by skilled managers contributes to the overall success of the organisation. Positive and empowered teams are more innovative, adaptable, and resilient, positioning the company for long-term growth. By leveraging PQ, managers become instrumental in creating a workplace culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters collaboration, and adapts to the ever-changing business landscape.

In the fast-paced and competitive business environment, Positive Intelligence® stands out as a valuable asset for managers and leaders. By cultivating a positive mindset, understanding individual team dynamics, and leveraging PQ in daily interactions, managers can drive team motivation, development, and organizational success. 

As Positive Intelligence® becomes an integral part of leadership practices, managers who understand the balance between Sage and Saboteurs will find themselves not only overcoming their personal leadership challenges but also inspiring a workforce that is ready to tackle anything that comes their way.

Learn more about Positive Intelligence® and how it can revolutionise the relationships, performance and wellbeing of your managers and teams here.

This blog was written by Vi Ramnarace, a university lecturer specialising in soft skills and executive coaching. As the CEO of Train Coach Mentor, she promotes compassionate leadership and business growth through talent management. Vi is also the founder and school director, guiding students and new managers in their academic and professional journeys. With a diverse background spanning the public, private, and voluntary sectors, Vi leverages over two decades of experience to support managerial growth and upscale teams. Her practical insights make her a valuable resource for organisations aiming to thrive in today's dynamic business landscape. 

Connect with Vi Ramnarace on LinkedIn. You may contact her by filling out this form or via email at hello@tcm-traincoachmentor.com.