Club managers have no shortage of responsibilities. In today’s fast-paced and constantly-changing environment, it’s no wonder that most club managers spend time focusing on what’s going wrong over what’s going right. But maybe it’s time for a shift in the focus…

In her book, “Help Them Grow or Watch Them Go,” written with Bev Kaye, Julie Winkle says too much time spent on the problems in the operation may result in a missed opportunity for managers and organizations. “Affirming and appreciating employees cost literally nothing and research suggests that they offer a range of benefits” including: reduced stress, improved well-being, heightened cognitive functioning, enhancing decision-making and problem solving, and higher levels of engagement and retention.

Winkle goes on to state that these benefits don’t just impact the employee; they also benefit the leader. Research suggests that shifting one’s focus toward gratitude can improve the health and well-being of the giver. “Simply giving what’s working equal air time changes the experience of supervision, infusing greater positivity, optimism and energy into the manger’s work experience,” she said. 

So shift your focus today! What are the routine things at your club that are going so well you don’t even notice them? Stop paying attention to what’s going wrong and start praising your teammates for things going well!  You might just be shocked at how a little positivity can go a long way!