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Focus on the Past

Looking at your professional experiences through the rearview mirror can run the gamut from inspiring to downright depressing—it all depends on the aspects of the past you choose to remember. When you intentionally recall successes, your mood lifts, and you become open to insights on how you were able to achieve your goals. When it comes to remembering failure and setbacks, you can boost your mood and gather insights too, but only if you look beyond the breakdown itself to harvest the lessons and the benefits that are often hidden from plain view.

A positive focus on the past is an indispensable leadership tool. As a leader, you have a major responsibility to give yourself and those you want to influence a positive orientation ...

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