Positive psychology, positive mindsets, and being a “positive person” has gained growing attention from both the public and researchers everywhere. Leaders will often be given and give the advice to “stay positive” – and, for good reason!

In our last episode, we talked about the benefits of having a positive mindset and how to help others adopt one. In this conversation we’re going to explore the other side of positivity and how this inherently great thing can become detrimental.

Tune in for the full conversation or enjoy the moments below:

1:52 – what we mean by a positive mindset

3:22 – why we don’t talk about positive mindsets as a bad thing

3:54 – what it looks like to take positivity too far

4:49 – why the “cheerleader approach” can draw backlash

7:11 – the impact positivity can have on your ability to build trust

8:57 – we assume positive people are approachable, but that’s only true if…

9:30 – when having a reputation as being a positive leader isn’t so great

12:12 – how being “all about positivity” towards others can become harmful

14:23 – the effect on others when you’re overskilled at resolving ‘negative’ emotions

19:10 – where this can live in our personal lives

21:26 – how pressure to be positive can become dangerous for ourselves

24:21 – the common place where staying positive is challenging for leaders

25:34 – the impact on others when we take positivity too far

25:52 – what studies have shown about hope

30:46 – the cognitive dissonance that comes from unmet expectations

32:29 – how you can find the balance in negativity and positivity