I have long held the belief that the most important gift I can give my children is not education, but optimism. Healthy levels of optimism are associated with improved health, higher levels of motivation and performance and career success.

I say this as a natural pessimist. I tend to think the worst will happen in any new situation and that any setback is likely to be fatal. When it comes to football, I never think that my team, Preston North End, will win – although, to be fair, that viewpoint is often supported by results!

Optimism can be learned, though, and is a critical characteristic of any business leader. While it is necessary to understand and be prepared for possible downside events, you will only grow and develop your organisation if you are willing to take prudent risks. And that is something that optimists can do better than pessimists.

As we come out of the pandemic, as I have written below, now is a time for optimism and bold moves.

How optimistic are you about the future of your business? And how are you translating that optimism into a series of bold moves that will drive its success over the coming months and years?

Off The Record: Here Comes The Sun by The Beatles

Little darling, it’s been a long cold lonely winter

Little darling, it seems like years since it’s been here

Here comes the son (do0-da-doo-doo)

Here comes the sun, and I say

It’s alright

The Time for Bold Moves

Growing through and beyond the pandemic requires bold actions, not timid plans. These 5 steps can help you to accelerate growth and transform your market position.

© Stuart Cross 2021. All rights reserved.