Four tips on maintaining a positive attitude and outlook as a manager

A team manager should be a source of inspiration, motivation and positive energy for their subordinates. They should set an example to employees and always be able to find something positive in every situation, spotting opportunities even in problems. But managers are also only human, so they may sometimes lose their own motivation and fall into a certain melancholy. How can you maintain a positive attitude at all times, especially when you have to set a good example to subordinates? Here are four tips.

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This text is based on an article published by Forbes.

Tip one: Visualise success

A good way to resist negative thoughts is to start visualising success. Before every meeting, imagine what it will be like when, during the discussion, you achieve what you wanted to achieve. Or how it will feel when you and your team work through a complex project and achieve success. By changing your expectations, you will also change your attitude and genuinely increase your chances of success.

Tip two: Clearly define your goals

An important tool for maintaining long term motivation is having clearly defined goals which you are working towards. Have both short-term and long-term goals clearly written down and defined, and keep these in mind during your daily activities. Likewise, clearly communicate to subordinates what specific goals they have set and what you are trying to achieve as a team.

Tip three: Break down complex tasks into smaller ones

When faced with a complex task, break it down into smaller steps and focus on these. This applies both to you personally and the planning and organisation of team work. Let go of the monumental nature of the challenge before you and occupy your mind with thinking about the small tasks you are carrying out.

Tip four: Understand yourself

Good managers are characterised by high emotional intelligence. This means, among other things, that they know their own emotions and understand how to work with them instead of being merely their slave. Learn to recognise what brings you joy and how you can calm yourself in moments of stress, thus bringing your emotions under control.

 

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Article source Forbes.com - prestigious American business magazine and website
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