Episode 145: "The power of optimism."

Greetings, Summit Leaders.

"In hope against hope, he believed." is a great quote describing one man's response to what appeared to be an impossible set of circumstances. How can we respond when bad times come? Don't stop believing!

Keep your perspective that the best is yet to come.
The dark moments in our life and career journey only last long enough to accomplish our preparation to serve and lead.


Ask yourself, what can I learn from this refining experience; COVID-19 pandemic, virtual work and training, quarantine, and the list goes on?

Recently, a Summit alum shared his experience in a Harvard class focusing on leadership in sales. "My takeaway was that sellers who are optimistic are more productive than those who are not."


He shares insights from the book, Learned Optimism, How to Change Your Mind and Your Life, by Martin E. P. Seligman.

An optimist believes that permanent conditions cause good events and that bad events result from temporary factions.

Optimists are realistic; they contemplate the facts and do not deny that the circumstances are challenging, and the road to victory can be months or even years ahead. 

They have "self-talks" that affirm their growth and overcoming. Optimists go on the attack in their thinking against every negative thought not aligned with their vision and purpose.


During the challenging days, months, and years ahead, resolve to be faithful in your responsibilities to others and loyal to your company. 

Remember the story of the ruler who gave talents to three servants. To one, he gave five. To another, he gave two, and to another, he gave one talent.


He then went on a long journey.


While he was away, the first two servants went to work immediately and doubled their talents.

Upon his return, they gave the ruler an excellent report on how they each doubled their talents.

The ruler's response, "Well done, good and faithful servants, You have been faithful over little, now I will make you ruler over much. Celebrate with me."


Finally, the servant with one talent gave this account. "I was afraid, so I buried your talent in the ground, and here it is."

The ruler was furious and ordered the servant cast out of his kingdom.


One of the story's messages is to stay loyal and faithful to the company you serve.

Use your talents for their benefit and their growth.

Your reward will be great.

Here are three quotes on hope for the optimistic.

"A leader is a dealer in hope." - Napoleon Bonaparte.

"In these days of difficulty, we Americans everywhere must and shall choose the path of social justice...the path of faith, the path of hope, and the path of love toward our fellow man." - Franklin D. Roosevelt.

"I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it. And so it is with you! - Charles Swindoll.


Victory!