When I spend time mentoring business leaders in the leadership practices comprising our Conscious Commerce pillar, the topic of healthy skepticism often arises. These sharp, capable leaders wonder to what degree is it effective to be skeptical?No one wants to look foolish, weak, silly, or make a mistake, right? I agree,and here is what you need to know about skepticism versus cynicism. Here is what effective leaders know…

Skepticism is healthy and allows each of us to take the time needed to make choices that align with our goals, values and desired outcomes. It is an understand able inquiry into the validity of a seemingly positive outcome. Too good to be true?

The healthy skeptic takes a step back and looks at the probability of an outcome that will work for them. Once the inquiry is complete, the skeptic can then decide if they will take a chance on what has been presented. They may not know exactly how the results will be achieved, but they have done the due diligence required to make an informed decision. What is done once they have the information is a key difference between skeptics and cynics. Cynic are uncomfortable changing their minds even with new information. Some can appear as intellectual bullies who in their sincere interest to alert us to potential pitfalls, discredit the possibility of a positive outcome. Although I love that they are looking out for us, I may not subscribe to their risk assessment. Here is why…

At VAST we care about optimism and its benefit to all human beings. As a result of these leadership discussions I created a
  Continuum of Optimism which explains the progression of Optimism from: Entrenched Cynic to Negative Person to Skeptic to Practical Optimist to Pollyanna. We eachl and on different places on this continuum at different times in our day and lives.Therefore, it is good to understand and appreciate each stop.

The Continuum of Optimism illustrates the gifts and benefits of:

> Entrenched Cynic>Negative Person. Skeptic>Practical Optimist>> Pollyanna >

Pessimism>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>Optimism

Entrenched Cynic : The Entrenched Cynic sees the positive outcome as unattainable or shaky and wants to make sure you know it. They embody discouragement, pointing out what could go wrong and assuming it will. They also enjoy spreading fear, uncertainty and doubt in those who are bold, kindhearted and visionary… or just happy. This expression of negativity can be toxic, so pay attention.

Negative Ned or Nellie . You have met this person. You know the type. These people are uncomfortable with the positivity of a drama free, relaxed and joyful life.These folks cannot wait to point out impending doom with gusto. I suspect these dear people are committed to their negativity as a method of shying away from being disappointed. These character-building parts of ourselves and others experience incessant negativity which significantly deplete our emotional and physical energies. Becoming aware of this aspect within yourself and its impact on your relationships can allow for a positive shift in perspective. Check out the chapter in Kindling the Flame on Negative Nellies and Neds.

Skeptic : Possesses a healthy sense of inquiry regarding the veracity of how a situation is presented. Once the necessary info is gathered and assessed, a risk towards the goal is taken, as personally indicated. Risk tolerance can vary dramatically from skeptic to skeptic. My partner and I have different risk tolerances on many things, including the“5-second rule”. You know, when you drop a cookie or piece of food on the floor and must decide if you will eat it, wash it, or dump it? Healthy Skepticism allows you to identify risk factors to clearly negotiate for your values and current boundaries.

Practical Optimist : Knows life is good yet hard at times. During the hard times this skill set encourages action, combined with understanding, to generate a positive outcome. Practical Optimists believe a desired outcome is possible, without knowing the details as to exactly how that will unfold. This infuses the goal with faith in the chosen result although the precise path there may be uncertain.

Pollyanna/ Pollyalan : Knows that goodness ultimately prevails and cannot be dissuaded from it. Their imagination is well developed although they are rarely interested in spending much time with you imagining drama-laden negativity.

Please take a minute to identify where you are most comfortable and least comfortable on the VAST Continuum of Optimism.

>> Entrenched Cynic >> Negative Person >> Skeptic >> Practical Optimist >> Pollyanna >>

Pessimism >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>Optimism 

It is in the best interest of your mind to decide where you can naturally shift your thoughts up the scale of Optimist via actions such as focusing on solutions,less dramatic interactions, respectful resolution, compassionate encouragement.Bringing out the best in self and those around you. It is a choice once we take a moment to consider it.

Optimism enriches your brain chemistry and elevates your problem-solving abilities.

Read more on how to boost your natural sense of Optimism in a way that is yours alone. We all can use a bit of encouragement these days.