I bought a new pair of shoes recently and it reminded me of a short story that I read about two shoe sales people who were sent to Africa to ascertain if there was a market for their product.

The first sales person reported back “I want to come home. This is a terrible business opportunity because no one wears shoes in this part of Africa.”

The company agreed that the sales person could return home and sent another sales person.

Upon arrival, the second sales person reported back to the company. They said “There is massive potential and opportunity here as nobody wears shoes.”

The first sales person had been discouraged by what they saw and failed to see any opportunity. The second sales person looked at things in a different way.

It was their view that if the villagers could be convinced of the merits and benefits of wearing shoes, there were massive sales to be made.

For me, this story simply but very powerfully illustrates that the attitude we adopt in life and the way that we view situations will ultimately shape the results that we achieve.

There is a great quote by Henry Ford that confirms this point.

He said “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t you’re right.”

If we look for opportunities and solutions then we are likely to find them.

On the other hand if we programme our mind to see challenges and problems then that is likely to be what we discover and encounter.

This week why not take a few moments to reflect on your own outlook in life. How optimistic are you? If you are facing an issue or challenge at present professionally or personally, ask yourself what benefits or alternative solutions may a little optimism bring to the situation?

This week’s quotation:

“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.” Helen Keller

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