Stopping Bad things from happening vs making good things happen
- jarcacc
- Aug 20, 2024
- 1 min read
Recently, during a coaching session, an interesting concept came up that resonated deeply with a client. The discussion revolved around the difference between "stopping bad things from happening" versus "making good things happen," and how this mindset can significantly influence our behaviour and outcomes.

In many aspects of life, we tend to focus on avoiding failure, preventing mistakes, or minimising risks. This mindset, while protective, often activates our brain's threat response, leading to anxiety and limiting our potential for creativity and growth. My client, like many of us, found himself caught in this defensive loop, particularly when it came to high-stakes tasks.
However, through the lens of positive intelligence, we explored the idea of shifting focus from merely preventing negative outcomes to actively pursuing positive ones. This approach engages a different part of our brain, encouraging us to think more creatively and strategically. This shift in perspective was transformative. By focusing on what he wanted to achieve rather than what he wanted to avoid, he noticed a significant change in his motivation and overall outlook.
Positive intelligence offers practical tools to help reframe our thinking, allowing us to cultivate a mindset geared towards making good things happen. Whether it's in our personal or professional lives, this shift can lead to more fulfilling and successful outcomes.
How often do you find yourself stuck in a cycle of preventing bad things rather than striving for the good? Perhaps it’s time to reframe your focus and see what changes unfold.
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