In the article “Negativity Is a Losing Mindset: How Positivity Wins in Coaching and Management” by Marc Lobliner, the author shares his experiences coaching his son's U11 football team and highlights the importance of a positive mindset in both coaching and management. Lobliner emphasizes the power of positivity and recounts a game where his team faced off against a negative and angry opposing team. Despite not having the biggest or strongest players, Lobliner's team emerged victorious with a 42-0 win, thanks to their culture of positivity, encouragement, and focusing on what they do right instead of dwelling on mistakes. The author also discusses the impact of positivity in the workplace, citing various studies that support the benefits of a positive work environment, such as increased productivity, better decision-making abilities, and reduced employee turnover. Lobliner concludes the article by emphasizing the importance of positivity in parenting and coaching, stating that being positive can lead to lifelong impacts and success.
Negativity Is a Losing Mindset: How Positivity Wins in Coaching and Management
Overview
In coaching and management, adopting a positive mindset can have a significant impact on both the individual and the team. Positivity has been proven to increase productivity, improve decision-making abilities, boost creativity, enhance team collaboration, reduce employee turnover, promote better health and well-being, increase engagement, foster enhanced learning and flexibility, and create higher levels of satisfaction. Negativity, on the other hand, can have detrimental effects on motivation, performance, and overall well-being. In this article, we will explore the importance of positivity in coaching, management, and even parenting, highlighting how positivity can lead to success and a thriving team.
The Impact of Positivity in Coaching and Management
1. Increased Productivity
A study conducted by the University of Warwick found a 12% spike in productivity among happy workers, while unhappy workers were 10% less productive. This research demonstrates that human happiness has a positive causal effect on productivity. When coaches and managers emphasize positivity, they create an environment that promotes motivation and drives productivity.
2. Better Decision-Making Abilities
Research from the University of Pennsylvania's Positive Psychology Center revealed that individuals induced to feel positive emotions performed better at problem-solving and decision-making tasks than those in a neutral state. Positivity widens attention and allows people to think more broadly and openly, leading to better decision-making abilities.
3. Boosts Creativity
Positive emotions, according to Barbara Fredrickson's “broaden-and-build theory,” expand attention and enable individuals to think more broadly and openly. This, in turn, fuels creativity. Coaches and managers who foster positivity in their teams create an environment that encourages creative thinking and innovation.
4. Enhanced Team Collaboration
A study from MIT's Human Dynamics Laboratory found that successful teams actively communicate and connect with all members. Positive interactions contribute to this dynamic, promoting effective team collaboration. Coaches and managers who cultivate positivity create a sense of unity and cooperation, leading to stronger team collaboration.
5. Reduced Employee Turnover
A positive work environment and culture encourage employees to stay longer in their jobs, reducing turnover rates. According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), a positive work environment is essential in reducing employee turnover. By fostering positivity, coaches and managers can create a workplace that promotes loyalty and retains talented individuals.
6. Better Health & Well-being
Positive work environments and low job stress are linked to better health outcomes for employees, leading to reduced absenteeism and increased productivity. Coaches and managers who prioritize positivity not only improve the well-being of their team members but also create a healthier and more productive work environment.
7. Increased Engagement
Engaged workers with high well-being are more likely to be attached to their organizations and are more productive. Gallup research highlights the correlation between engagement, well-being, and productivity. Coaches and managers who foster positivity promote engagement and a sense of purpose among their team members.
8. Enhanced Learning & Flexibility
Positive emotions facilitate adaptive thinking and flexibility in cognitive processing. When individuals experience positive emotions, they are more likely to adapt to new situations and learn effectively. Coaches and managers who promote positivity create an environment conducive to continuous learning and growth.
9. Higher Levels of Satisfaction
Happiness is a key indicator of job satisfaction. Employees who experience high levels of happiness are more likely to report satisfaction with their jobs. Coaches and managers who prioritize positivity help create a fulfilling work experience for their team members.
10. Creates a Positive Feedback Loop
Experiencing positive emotions leads to higher levels of resilience, which, in turn, leads to increased positive emotions. This positive feedback loop has numerous beneficial effects in the workplace. Coaches and managers who emphasize positivity create a positive cycle of growth and success within their teams.
The Importance of Positivity in Parenting
The impact of positivity extends beyond coaching and management—it is also crucial in parenting. Praise and positive reinforcement are powerful tools in shaping a child's behavior and self-esteem. By praising good behavior, expressing love, and showing pride in their accomplishments, parents can create a supportive and nurturing environment for their children. Positivity in parenting helps children develop a positive self-image and fosters their emotional well-being.
Conclusion
Negativity is a losing mindset, both in coaching and management. Positivity, on the other hand, has numerous benefits that contribute to success, productivity, and overall well-being. By embracing positivity, coaches and managers can unlock the full potential of their team members, creating an environment that promotes engagement, collaboration, and growth. Similarly, positivity in parenting helps children thrive and develop a positive outlook on life. Whether in the professional or personal sphere, cultivating positivity is a winning mindset that leads to a more fulfilling and successful life. So, be positive, be a winner!
