One of the top problems we, as network marketers, have is TOO much optimism. While a positive outlook is essential, excessive optimism can lead to unrealistic expectations and setbacks.
“Excessive optimism saps the will to persevere.”
– Martin Seligman, American psychologist and author of “Learned Optimism.”
A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that overly optimistic individuals tend to underestimate the time and effort required to achieve their goals, leading to higher rates of disappointment and failure (Weinstein, 1980).
Research by Tali Sharot, a cognitive neuroscientist, suggests that while optimism can be beneficial, too much optimism can lead to risk-taking and poor decision-making because it can blind people to potential dangers and pitfalls (Sharot, 2011).
“A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty. The realist sees things as they are and navigates accordingly.”
– William Arthur Ward
A study in the Psychological Bulletin indicates that people with an excessive optimistic bias are more likely to ignore negative feedback and continue making poor choices, which can hinder their long-term success (Shepperd, Klein, Waters, & Weinstein, 2013).
While optimism is a valuable trait, balance is key. As network marketers, it’s crucial to remain realistic about the challenges and efforts required to achieve success. Being aware of the potential downsides of excessive optimism can help us stay grounded, make better decisions, and ultimately achieve our goals more effectively.
What makes us great in many ways is our optimism. This is one of our strengths as a whole, but it is also often a major weakness. We are such huge dreamers that we often think in just the best-case scenario. Most network marketers think if they had a great month making, say, 50,000 for the month, that this time next year will be much better. We do the same with investments. Most network marketers are risk-takers. They are so optimistic that they believe in their investment’s probability more than the norm and often get themselves in trouble.
All of the things I have just said are me. I will always err on the side of optimism. I am not teaching one to be fearful, negative, or pessimistic, but I am teaching that the best leaders look at their blind spots. They are aware of their weaknesses. They look at both the best-case scenario and the worst-case scenario. They are direct and willing to not sugarcoat things.
Keith Cunningham, in his book “The Road Less Stupid,” offers valuable insights for leaders. His principles stress the importance of considering both best and worst-case scenarios, understanding and acknowledging one’s weaknesses, and being realistic and straightforward in decision-making. Here are some core principles from his book:
- Focus on Thinking Time: Cunningham emphasizes the importance of setting aside dedicated time for thinking and reflection. This helps in making well-considered decisions rather than impulsive ones driven by excessive optimism.
- Assess Risks and Rewards: Evaluate potential risks and rewards thoroughly before making decisions. This ensures a balanced approach that considers both the positive and negative outcomes.
- Avoiding Mistakes: Learn from past mistakes and avoid repeating them. Cunningham advises leaders to identify and understand their past errors to prevent future setbacks.
- Reality Check: Always have a reality check by questioning assumptions and testing beliefs against real-world scenarios. This helps in maintaining a realistic perspective and making informed decisions.
By integrating these principles with a balanced approach to optimism, network marketers can make more informed decisions, avoid common pitfalls, and achieve sustained success.
One Response
This was SO helpful! I am such the optimist!! It has served me well for a LONG time, and is one of my most acclaimed traits. AND recently I have found it has placed me in the under acheived camp ~ “underestimating the work, sapping perseverance.” Thanknyou for uncovering a blind spot.