Feel Like Everyone's Conspiring?

Pronoia.

When you think everyone is out to get you, well... that's paranoia.

We're talking about PRONOIA    

What if instead of paranoia, you decide to think that  everyone is on your side, that people are out there in the world supporting you?

I recently participated in a training where everyone got applause. That's even better than everyone gets a trophy.

The idea was that if you put yourself out there and tried in front of a group of strangers, then we were there to support you.   It's amazing how you can shake off your nerves when you've got a crowd cheering you on.

That group later shifted to WhatsApp and they regularly share positivity and encouragement, and those little hand animations clapping for each other. 

The interesting thing is, and I know this because I've both witnessed and participated in it, behind the scenes those same people are talking about each other in a positive way.   They are telling others about the new author, the fantastic offer, the upcoming speech, the cool tip someone shared.   They are talking behind people's backs, conspiring for the best possible outcomes for each other.

Lovely, isn't it? Let's confidently determine that others are thinking and wishing us well.

And take that forward into your self-leadership and your leadership of others. Propagate and systemically work on behalf of the wellbeing of others.

On your team, talk about others behind their backs by telling people about the amazing work they do, or how they really exhibit the values of the company culture. Highlight how helpful someone else has been. Let it get back to them and allow it to sink in that you're the type of Boss who cares about and speaks positively about others.

With your colleagues, listen to them, look for ways you can conspire with them and behind their backs to support them, to help them reach their goals, to develop, to succeed.

With your own boss, look at ways you can be supportive and help them achieve their objectives. Actively support them to their face and behind their backs, in the actions and the words you take. 

Choose to believe that others are working on your behalf as well. That they are actively seeking to support you.   It's a much healthier state to lead from than thinking people are out to get you. And when others see you modeling the pronoia approach, it catches on.