Negativity Won’t Solve Your Problems—Here’s What Will
Negativity is easy. It’s automatic. It’s hardwired into our brains to protect us from danger. But here’s the truth: negativity alone doesn’t solve problems.
Your brain’s executive function—the mental "CEO" that helps you make decisions, strategize, and lead—shuts down when negativity takes over. As Ethan Kross explains in Chatter, rumination traps us in a cycle where we focus more on the problem than the solution.
"The mind is a wonderful servant but a terrible master." — Robin Sharma
Negativity has a role: it can help identify issues. But it takes positive action to fix them.
Why Do We Default to Negativity?
The Brain Is Wired for Survival – Your mind constantly scans for threats. But in today’s world, those “threats” often come in the form of challenges, criticism, or uncertainty—not actual danger.
Negativity Steals Mental Bandwidth – When you dwell on problems, your brain’s executive function becomes overloaded, making it harder to think clearly, plan, or make good decisions.
Negative Thoughts Feel Productive – Complaining or venting can feel like action, but it rarely leads to real progress. It keeps us stuck instead of moving forward.
Three Tactics to Shift from Negativity to Problem-Solving
Reframe the Narrative
When your inner voice turns negative, challenge it. Instead of “I’m stuck,” say “I’m figuring it out.” Instead of “This is a disaster,” say “This is a challenge I can handle.” The battle isn’t just external – it’s internal. Your inner voice has the power to either clarify or cripple your thinking. The words of your inner voice shape your reality.Train Yourself to Move Forward
The Steady Leader framework teaches that clarity comes from action. If you’re caught in negative thought loops, take a step—any step—toward solving the issue. Action breaks the cycle of rumination.Use After-Action Reviews
In leadership and in life, mistakes happen. Instead of dwelling on what went wrong, analyze it, refine your approach, and move forward stronger. As the Stoics taught, “obstacles aren’t barriers; they’re opportunities to improve.”
Bottom Line:
Negativity is a signal, not a solution. Great leaders acknowledge problems but don’t stay stuck in them. They train their minds to shift toward solutions, knowing that real progress starts with a decision: Do I focus on the problem, or do I focus on the solution?
How do you catch yourself when negativity takes over? Hit reply and let me know—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Written by Schuyler Williamson
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God Bless!
~ Schuyler Williamson