This might seems like nothing more than a “Be Positive” post.
Let me explain why it is so much more!

The attitude, perspective, and energy of a leader is the life-blood of the team. If it is positive, then the team is going to be largely positive. If it is negative…well we’ve all seen that.
“But,” you might-well say, “Both of the statements on the card are positive! Is there really that much of a difference between ‘I hope’ and ‘I am’?” Neither of them is negative. Neither of them is defeatist. Why does it matter?

I submit for your consideration that there is a world of difference between the two.
“I hope” says, “I’m not sure if I can.”
“I hope” says, “I’m not sure if I will.”
“I hope” says, “There may be something that will stop me.”
“I hope” says, “I am not in control of my own destiny.”
“I hope” says, “I am not sure if this is what I was meant to accomplish.

But, “I am going to…” says, “I will find a way.”
“I am going to…” says, “No excuse is acceptable.”
“I am going to…” says, “Nothing will stand in my way.”
“I am going to…” says, “I am taking ownership for my actions and their consequences.”
“I am going to…” says, “I know my purpose (my ‘why’), and I am pursuing it with gusto!

Do you see the difference?
It’s pretty huge!

But, here is the craziest part: That is not even the biggest difference!
The REAL difference is that all of the above statements will be exponentially magnified by our team!
Imagine you telling your team, “I hope we can get this done.” (communicating: “I’m not sure if we are supposed to do this today.”)
Are they going to be excited? NO!
Are they going to work with passion? NO!
Are they going to contribute toward a common purpose? NO–There isn’t one!
The subliminal impact of “I hope.” can be so destructive! Both to you AND to your team!
I do not “Hope” to have a good day, and change the world, I am absolutely going to do so! Will you join me?