Why I Now Believe in Exploring Best-Case Scenarios

In this series, professionals describe the skills they’re building this year. Read the stories here, then write your own (use #SkillsGap in the body of your post).

I wasn’t sure I had a New Year’s resolution this year. I’m not often in the habit of creating them let alone sharing them, but when I asked my Twitter followers for their insights, one particular theme struck a chord.

Positivity is one of the key traits I depended on when I first started my own business — and now like many of you, it’s one of the areas I’m going to be focusing on in 2016.

Now, let’s get one thing straight: I’m not walking around with a grey cloud over my head — generally, I am a pretty happy guy. But I always find myself considering the downfall rather than the best-case scenario. I often say that as an entrepreneur, you have to be paranoid. I take it to an extreme and honestly, it’s usually the best-case scenarios that need the most work in terms of execution and contingency planning.

I’ve been called too timid at times because despite seeing the potential in an opportunity, I’ve dipped my toe in – fearful of a negative outcome. I realize now that my best business decisions have been made when I’ve leaned in, taken the leap outside of my comfort zone and been fueled by a positive focus.

In 2016, I am leading with positivity. Best-case scenarios will be the first situations explored, and I’m going to focus on the “what if’s” that will help me grow.

I have a few things I plan on keeping in mind, going into 2016, to keep me optimistic.

Get excited about all the possibilities ahead — We can’t control the future but we do have the ability to shape it with a focused vision and hard work.

Look at things as opportunities — It’s all about perception. Challenging ourselves to look at things from a different perspective allows us to learn, to grow and can open a new door.

Stop being your own worst critic — Sure, something didn’t go the way we expected. There are a lot of people out there who are happy to criticize. It’s your job to keep focused and keep going. Don’t be so hard on yourself.

Visualize a successful outcome — When’s the last time you asked yourself, "What’s the best thing that can happen?" Try it.

Start immediately — It will take time for your thinking to switch. So let’s start now. 

To your success and to an incredibly positive 2016,