There has been much written about the benefits of positivity and there is now a considerable body of science backing up those benefits. Positive emotions flood our brain with feel-good chemicals that dial up the learning centers of our brain to higher levels. Positivity helps us flourish, grow, be more resilient and also sparks possibility, expansion, and abundance. Yup – being positive is a very good thing…and yet that is only the beginning!

We will experience even more powerful forward and immediate momentum in our lives when we move positive thought to action by embracing a dynamic and creative GENERATIVE approach. A generative approach begins with positive thought. We then focus the brain on opportunities for change or growth and from there we can generate action to move toward that desired outcome.

5 Key Steps to Implement a Generative Approach

1/ Identify and Acknowledge Reality

In order to think generatively and create new life, ideas and possibilities we have to be aware of and acknowledge (without judgment) the current reality or situation. Be real and be aware of the facts. Once the awareness is there, shift your focus. Rather than remaining focused on the lack, or the problem, move to Step 2 and begin to think generatively toward the future or conditions you want. Then watch the possibilities open up.

2/Think Generatively

The one question you must always ask yourself “Is this thought generative?”(Does it open possibilities and move me or the situation forward?) If not, reframe and ask yourself some generative mindset questions. e.g. / How could I shift my thinking about the current situation? What is the opportunity in this situation? (vs. a focus on “lack”, the “weakness” or problem) How could I change my perspective? Where could we grow? What could we change for a better result? Notice the mental space that opens up when you begin to think generatively.

3/ Focus Toward

Continue to focus and refocus your energy on the result or conditions you want, instead of focusing on what you don’t want. Where thought goes, energy flows. Acting generatively will inspire you to move toward a solution instead of moving away from a problem. When examining a situation, or working to better it – approach your planning from a generative perspective. Feel the momentum that surges as a result.

4/ Speak Generatively (including your self-talk)

Communicating with language is a big responsibility – we speak an average of 15,000 words per day. Even a single word in a sentence has the power to shift our intended meaning from generative and forward-moving to stalling or damaging. When you speak, listen to your words – are they generative? Do they move you forward, keep you standing still, or hold you back? What about your self-talk? Does your self-talk open up possibilities or do they shut them down? Use language that keeps the brain moving toward your desired state.

5/ Listen Generatively

Most often in conversation we listen with the intent of formulating a response. With a slight shift in focus, generative listening would have us listen with the intent to understand. Global consultant C. Otto Scharmer, goes further and says that generative listening actually connects us to something larger than ourselves, and in essence we then start listening from “the emerging field of future possibility.” Stay curious as you listen and feel the conversation open up.