What are the psychodynamics of a great comeback? What is happening when a team deeply believes that the game isn’t over until the last pitch is thrown? What are coaches/leaders doing differently when players trust in each other that they can win under really challenging odds?
Our firm coaches’ executives who deliver big-time impact. Superior intellect, high levels of job competency, experience, and emotional/mental health are taken for granted. Everybody’s resume is quite similar…excellent tenure with quality companies, experience, quality education with name brand schools. This gets one into the game, but being solidly capable is not a game changer. If teams (on paper) are similar, what sets them apart? What makes a team world class? Whether talent is in the ballpark or boardroom, the difference between winners and losers often comes down to the instillation of shared optimism. When a culture of shared optimism is nurtured, belief in each other and what’s possible is so powerful it’s almost magical.
Shared optimism means giving of something to others based on a positive expectation. When a sharing culture is created, the ego is greatly diminished; people speak with vulnerability and authenticity. The team understands when people weigh in on a topic without fear, accuracy of thinking is dramatically increased. People experience a real sense of confidence, comradery, and inner peace. They then extend this peace willingly and freely to team members.
Optimistic teams confidently believe they will find a way to succeed. Strengths are nurtured and become energized. The more a strength is given away, the stronger it becomes. Positive energy flowing from shared optimism is deliciously contagious.
If you’re a leader, ask yourself how much you instill shared optimism. Are you willing and able to speak enthusiastically from your heart? Do you deeply listen and create a positive space to incorporate the very best thinking of your team? Do you create the psychological state that encourages people to collaborate and use strengths to support a mindset of shared optimism? Can your team play to win with two outs in the 9th?