Do you find yourself annoyed when others are negative? Here’s a great way to look in the mirror and unmask your naysayer once and for all! Ironically, when you point that finger at another, three point back at you!
Take the Paper Clip Challenge:
Get a box of paperclips and keep it handy. Every time you catch yourself having an old fashioned negative thought, “I’m too fat, too thin, too old, stupid, lazy, etc. take a paperclip out and start connecting them together. It’s an easy fun way to see how how fast you put yourself in “negative bondage.”
I did this experiment with senior management of a large corporation during a strategic retreat. During one 15 minute break, each of the executives was given their box and asked to be totally honest about their thoughts. Several came back with all 100 draped around their necks and amazed looks on their faces. One gentleman said, “I thought I was one of the most positive people I know.” “Not so,” he said with a smile.
It’s hard to be happy, joyful or prosperous when you are weighed down with the chains of negativity. The first step in releasing them is to catch yourself in the act.
You’ll be amazed at how many negative conversations you have inside your head! The paperclip visual becomes a great starting point and reality check for your negativity levels. Once you’ve caught yourself in the act, congratulate yourself. Awareness is a HUGE key to positive change.
Once you’ve had some fun with the negative, you can do the same exercise to catch yourself in the act of thinking something positive. Positive focus will help you build the habit of looking on the bright side, no matter how dark it seems.
The key in both these challenges is one of directing your mind. True leaders are flexible. They have the ability to course correct with accurate information and the willingness to take risks.
Here’s a great chance to take a stand for yourself and Lead by Design℠ rather than default!
Good luck, and keep me posted!
