Digging into the Good Stuff (Revisited)

When I collect feedback for a manager I’m coaching, I typically include these two questions: What does the manager do well? What could they improve? In one of these interviews, an engineer came in apologizing. “I’m really sorry,” he said, “but I don’t have any improvements for you. The guy is doing everything right in my eyes.”

I wiped the look of wonder off my face. An engineer with nothing to fix! I assured him that it was fine and said, “Let’s just dig into the good stuff!” I told him that in my experience few managers get to hear a detailed discussion of what they’re doing right. And research shows that true excellence grows from building on strengths.

He talked, and I typed. I asked him for as many specific examples as possible, knowing that this would be most helpful to the manager. It was truly refreshing to spend 30 minutes learning only about what someone did right. And it got me thinking about how little time most of us spend focusing on what’s working in our lives.

So I’d like to ask you to take a few moments right now to think about what you’re doing well, where you’re strong, and how you can capitalize on your strengths. Thinking about this can lead to changes in your immediate work life as well as career insights. And beyond the practical benefits … a “positive thinking break” will feel good too.

At this time of year much energy is spent looking at what needs to be fixed. It’s the definition of a New Year’s resolution. I’m re-posting this blog from 2011 to encourage you to also reflect on what you’re already doing well. And please don’t just do it once! As the year goes on when you’re stuck in what’s going wrong, spend a little time at the end of the day thinking of what’s gone right. It’s a great way to re-focus and re-energize.