Positive thinking is a tactic that’s used by the world’s most successful leaders, and for good reason. It’s been proven that positive thinking not only improves business sales, but it also has significant benefits for your mind and body.
There are plenty of examples of successful people who’ve used the power of positive thinking to the maximum effect. Want to know how you can, too? Let’s look at how some of the most famous leaders were able to rise above and think positively.
Nelson Mandela
As the first black president of South Africa, Nelson Mandela faced his fair share of hardships. This Nobel Peace Prize winner may have accomplished a lot through his activism and philanthropy, but it was his positive outlook that helped him through difficult times. Mandela was a political prisoner and spent 27 years of his life behind bars before being released in 1990. Four short years later, he was elected president of South Africa.
Mandela never gave up hope while he was imprisoned and even said, “I went for a long holiday for 27 years,” when asked about it. He knew that nothing would come from dwelling on the negative, and he made the most of his freedom because of it. On the topic of his positive outlook he once said, “I am fundamentally an optimist. Part of being optimistic is keeping one’s head pointed toward the sun, one’s feet moving forward. There were many dark moments when my faith in humanity was sorely tested, but I would not and could not give myself up to despair. That way lays defeat and death.”
Mandela passed away in 2013, but his work lives on through his foundation.
Warren Buffet
For years, Warren Buffet has contributed his success to his relentless optimism. Being one of the most successful people in the world doesn’t happen by accident. Buffet had to work toward his success, and through all of it he maintained a positive outlook.
Buffet started his empire with Buffett Partnership, Ltd., in 1956. He continued to work and acquire other successful businesses while remaining realistic. He even has pledged to give away 99% percent of his fortune to charitable causes.
One of his closest business partners and someone who knows him very well is Melinda Gates. She has spoken to his constant positivity in the past, and in an open letter addressed to Buffett, she expressed the following sentiment: “Your success didn’t create your optimism, your optimism led to your success.” Remaining optimistic can lead you to incredible results.
Choose your success.
The power to think positively about the world around you isn’t always easy, but it’s ultimately in your hands to do so. By maintaining a positive mindset, you’re setting yourself up for success. Plenty have done it before, why can’t you?
Are you feeling powerless in your life? Check out our tips on how to empower yourself!
