The Practice of Positive

Everyone likes to say they are a positive person.

While smiling or wearing bright clothes is a fine start, putting legitimate action to the notion you are positive takes a lot more substance. To actually be positive it takes creativity, patience, thinking, energy, intent, JUICE, or many other words of this similar guild. I was recently noting one of my favorite coaches' sayings for helping young baseball players get into an athletic stance.

He gave two scenarios: #1: the coach simply yells at his players "C'mon get down, in the ready position."

#2: The coach sings to his players with a melody "Dance, dance, everybody dance on the toilet, and hold two pizzas in your hands." Silly yes. Memorable yes. More helpful than simply yelling get ready? Certainly.

I think the words "Yells at" and "sings to" go a long way to illustrate the more overarching relationship I'm trying to convey. In any team, (team applies broadly to any group of 2+) it is most beneficial if all members are striving toward the same goal. Rather than having a vast hierarchical system, opting instead for one that involves not only the "coach" but also the participants' decisions. This will create a more intrinsic connection to the team by dividing up the power amongst all parties.

That is what it truly means to be a team; everyone is given part ownership, and everyone must do their own job to the best of their ability to put the team in a better position to achieve the desired goal. Notice I did not say WIN. Winning is not always within our control.

A quick tidbit I use often when working with people of all ages, sports, or tasks, is the "feedback sandwich." It might be cliche, but it works if done correctly. How it goes is you pick out something the person is genuinely doing well and you tell them that. Then give them the thing you really want them to work on. Finish the interaction by reiterating the thing they are doing well, or even give them another compliment. It can go a long way to not damage the psyche, while also getting your desired outcome across.

To actually be positive, one must do the following:

-Bring ENERGY

-Be patient

-Provide tasks that focus on things within our own control

-Be creative

-Keep perspective. It's a game after all.