Magnetic Optimism: A Key to Effective Post-Pandemic Communication
Magnetic Optimism: A Key to Effective Post-Pandemic Communication
by Victor Perton
The "Times of India" in its article "5 ways positive thinking helps in changing our life", highlights a compelling idea: "Positivity has a magnetic effect on interpersonal relationships. People are naturally drawn to those who exude optimism and warmth."
In our post-pandemic context, expressions of infectious or contagious optimism become essential to cut through the pervasive gloom, encouraging people to re-engage with the world around them.
My fascination with "magnetic optimism" aligns with this perspective.
It's a tangible and alluring optimism that naturally draws people in. The Times of India encapsulates this beautifully: "People are naturally drawn to those who exude optimism and warmth."
This concept resonates with me, possibly due to inspiration from my friend John Hagel and his idea of the power of pull, which underscores the attraction of positive forces.
At the Digital Innovation Futures Victoria, I presented "The Secrets of Optimism: The Superpower of the Innovator and the Entrepreneur" and emphasised: "At its simplest, optimism is an expectation that good things will happen and that things will work out in the end. The entrepreneur's superpower is infectious optimism - magnetic optimism, spreading positivity through smiles, eye contact, laughter, storytelling, and positive questioning. Entrepreneurs inspire their colleagues, customers, and stakeholders to reach out and touch a positive future."
I further developed this idea at the International Centre for Democratic Partnerships dialogue, "Optimism is the Superpower of the Entrepreneur," where it received strong approval. This concept goes beyond mere communication; it's about creating an aura of positivity that influences all aspects of interaction.
Face-to-face engagement remains a primary tool, fostering connections through genuine smiles, warm greetings, laughter, and stimulating conversation. Asking questions like, "What has been the best thing in your day?" or during meetings, "What makes you optimistic?" can significantly lift spirits and foster an optimistic environment.
Understanding and utilizing various communication platforms is essential in today's digitally-driven world. At the Centre for Optimism, we engage through email, LinkedIn, X, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, SMS, and calls, tailoring our communication to resonate with our audience effectively. This multi-platform approach cultivates engagement, trust, and collaboration, which is crucial in navigating the complexities of today's world.
Daily, I share strategies to enhance infectious optimism. In presentations like the one for Pacific Island States entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs, the focus on "magnetic optimism" is pivotal. It's about using optimism as a superpower to inspire and lead, creating a ripple effect of positivity and hope.
In conclusion, "magnetic optimism" is not just a technique; it's a powerful mindset. As we navigate the post-pandemic landscape, this approach can be transformative for individuals and organizations, serving as a beacon of hope and connection in these challenging times.