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Writer's pictureAntonise De Wet

The benefits of a positive mindset for small business owners

Do you let negative ideas influence your decision-making? Do you ever feel like you're trapped on a problem from the past?


Brian Tracy, an Entrepreneur Network partner, suggests a few strategies for keeping negativity out of your headspace and thinking happy ideas instead. Positive internal signals should be communicated to yourself. Better yet, give yourself a mental pep talk when you're suffering and sense pessimism creeping in. The power of positive thinking is based on the premise that when your mind is in a good place, wonderful things come into your life. Being positive increases your chances of success. Some individuals assume that people who think positively aren't realistic. Even if every day does not go perfectly, optimists focus on the portions that did. It's about providing oneself the mental freedom, health, and resolve to stick with your company through the ups and downs of the trip.




Let us delve a little deeper. All of this sounds wonderful in theory, but it's critical to understand how positive thinking may affect your business in practice.


Consider the following advantages:


1. Problem solving is enhanced by positive thinking.


It makes no difference whether you are a first-time entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner. Positive thinking has been shown in studies to improve problem solving. Positive thinking not only opens your mind to new possibilities, but it also offers your brain the ability to absorb new information and produce new ideas. Consider the following: When we are stressed, unhappy, apprehensive, or furious (negative thinking), our mind and body desire to shut down. Why? Because your body is genuinely attempting to protect itself from external assaults. Shutting down is a survival strategy for conserving energy.


However, when we think favorably, our brain feels comfortable and is able to absorb new information. This means we are more imaginative and more inclined to "connect the dots" in order to solve a difficult business problem. Positive thinking is more than "happy talk." It can actually help us succeed and thrive in business!


2. People who think positively have greater energy.

People have a tendency to respond to situations in predictable ways, which is a personality feature known as dispositional affect. Scientists concluded that persons with a positive affective disposition have more vitality and enthusiasm than those with a negative affective disposition. However, low levels of negative affectivity aren't always a bad thing because these folks may be more calm and relaxed.


3. People that are optimistic are more resilient.

Few entrepreneurs succeed with their initial business or idea. A successful business is frequently the result of numerous failures and missteps. Having a good attitude in the face of adversity, on the other hand, has been demonstrated in studies to help you become more resilient. According to one study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, "being able to move on despite unfavorable stresses does not reflect luck on the side of those successful individuals, but rather demonstrates a concept known as resilience."


Individuals with the feature "have optimistic, zestful, and energetic views to life, are curious and receptive to new experiences, and are characterized by strong positive emotionality," according to studies.


4. Positive thinking helps in decision-making.

It stands to reason that if you're in a bad frame of mind, you're less likely to make favorable decisions. According to the book Understanding the Entrepreneurial Mind (Springer Nature, 2009), "negative thinking from entrepreneurs in a bad mood could lead to actions that are more likely to be bad for their enterprise."


Decision-making is inextricably linked to problem-solving, therefore it needs many of the same qualities, such as resilience to focus on what you can control in order to solve an issue.


Positive emotions can also have an impact on entrepreneurship. Emotions such as passion, according to a study published in the Journal of Business Venturing, have an impact on entrepreneurship.


Positive thinking techniques to try

Now that you understand the benefits of positive thinking, it's time to put it into practice. Try the following suggestions for cultivating positive thinking:


1. Practice thankfulness first thing in the morning.

Begin each day on a positive note by focusing on the positive aspects of your life. You could wish to say a positive affirmation or think about what you're most looking forward to that day.


2. Take note of what you tell yourself.

Another positive thinking method is to stop negative self-talk. Being your own worst critic is a form of self-sabotage. Turn any setbacks or disappointments become life lessons you may apply later. Always keep your focus on the present and the future, and let the past go.


3. Maintain a positive corporate culture.

"By encouraging open communication and collaboration, businesses can foster an environment that supports optimistic thinking. "When employees believe they have a say in decision-making, they are more likely to be engaged and invested in their work," said Derek Capo, Starquix's chief operating officer.


4. Spread the love.

"Give every member of your team the opportunity to shine in front of their coworkers," said Kizik CEO Monte Deere. "By providing employees the stage to share something interesting to them, it creates a more intimate friendship among all. This type of shared optimism helps to foster a more supportive atmosphere."


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