Chapter 3 Optimism and Reality

Instill optimism ans self-confidence, but stay grounded in reality.

Optimism may not be a natural act for everyone, but there is a reason to believe that it is an ability that can be learned and greatly improved. The key lies in the inner dialogue that goes on, often unnoticed, almost all the time for all of us. You can get a message from yourself speaking and you will be conscious of the messages you are sending yourself about failure or success. The right messages are energizing, and the wrong ones ore deflating. 
On the other hand Martin Seligman, who is well known with the "learned optimism", argues that his ABCDE model is more effective.
Adversity, Beliefs, Consequences, dispute, Energy.

There are times in which leaders need to maintain their composure. despite the natural inclination to express feelings of discouragement, fear, or even despair. When fears and doubts are expressed openly, it may be difficult or impossible to rekindle the optimism that is so important for success.

When selecting people for key roles, it is natural to think about the knowledge, skills, and abilities to work with others, and values. such as integrity, are often considered carefully. Individual's characteristic tendency toward optimism or pessimism may be an important role. 

I liked the quote "I don't want any yes-men around me. I want them to tell me the truth, even if it costs them their jobs". I thought when I am a leader of a group, it is important and necessary to find people who will tell the truth which is trust able. 
Also what Ken taught us today was really interesting and as I liked the word, I would like to write it down on this blog. So that I can remember that it is a good experience to take risks, lots of failures and finally succeed.


To achieve something you have never had, 
                    you must do something you have never done.