Do you know that people have an emotional need to celebrate? It’s true. Leaders and teams that know how to celebrate milestones outperform those who do not. Well, people with a top 5 ranked CliftonStrengths® Talent Theme of Positivity have a contagious disease called… enthusiasm! If you want to catch it, get around someone strong in Positivity. These positive people are unselfish with their joy of living. They are upbeat, humorous, can generate excitement and enthusiasm, and they love to lead people to a better place. Sounds like a fun talent, right? It is, and you can learn more about it in this blog post.
For those of us who are a little further around the block, Positivity is the Mary Tyler Moore of talent themes. Someone with Positivity in her top 5 really can “take a nothing day and suddenly make it seem worthwhile.” Generous with praise and encouragement, and quick with a smile, you have a knack for seeing the silver lining in every cloud. For you, problems are possibilities. I had a math teacher in junior high who used that phrase and referred to tests as opportunities. She drove me batty. But I don’t have Positivity in my top 5. Still, she was right in many ways.
When others see the world as dreary, oppressive, and stressful, you offer hope, joy, and enthusiasm. This is a great quality to have in a team member. Rarely, do plans succeed without obstacles. People with strong Positivity can keep the team motivated and moving forward.
Furthermore, you can see and celebrate where others are gifted. Your validation and encouragement of others stimulate personal and team growth in them. When it comes to celebrating people, teams, and successes you are just the person for the job. In fact, on one of the teams that I led there was a person with high Positivity. I immediately put that team member in charge of celebrating team member’s birthdays, holidays, and completed projects.
Here are some other words that often describe a person with a top-5 Positivity talent:
- Joyful
- Lighthearted
- Excitable
- Social
- Emotionally Available
- Dramatic
- Happy
- Optimistic
I have to say that one of my favorite leaders was Fezziwig, Ebenezer Scrooge’s boss in Dickens’, A Christmas Carol. He led a successful company and seemed adept at finding that elusive work/life balance. I think he is a great example of how positivity can enhance leadership and create a strong culture.
To make the most of your talent, put yourself in situations where people need or want to celebrate. During difficult times you can be a source of energy and enthusiasm to offset the fear and anxiety in others. Do be careful to avoid toxic people and situations. Over time your positivity will take a beating. Make sure you are re-energizing yourself and your positivity. Since we all need energy to sustain change and health, here is a free download to facilitate more beneficial Relationships, recreation, and Rest.
Of course, there is much more to say about this talent. I hope those of you with Positivity in your top-5 will tell us more in the comments. Lastly, what are you doing to strengthen your Positivity talent?
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