No, Really: You've GOT to Accentuate the Positive...

I was recently asked, by someone I trust and respect very much, to do something I was VERY uncomfortable with - attend an industry event on his behalf, and make connections with people who could be useful in our shared business venture. I don't think of myself as someone who can walk into a room full of strangers and "politic". But this was an important favor, so I said I would do it. And then was instantly sorry. I had only an hour or so to get to the event, so I rushed around to get ready, then had some time on my drive to think about strategy.

It occurred to me that I do have a few other useful skills. Like being well-read enough to contribute to a lot of different conversations. Like knowing when to listen, and how to do that well enough that people KNOW I'm paying attention. Like being involved in a great organization with an innovative and valuable product that I very much believe in.

Long story short: once I decided to work from my strengths, I was able to compensate for my alleged weaknesses (ignore them, really), and accomplish the mission. As a bonus - I had a great time, and will probably benefit from this task for a long time to come.

It was a good reminder that when under stress, it's more useful to focus on what you have at hand that CAN enable you to succeed, instead of running inventory on the reasons why you're likely to fail. If I'm ever stranded in the jungle, this will be a useful policy, but it's come in handy in more ordinary scenarios, too....

lm


How Full Is Your Bucket? Positive Strategies for Work and Life