Positive deviance, a powerful and underutilised concept, is at the heart of effective leadership. This entails intentionally deviating from the norm in ways that produce meaningful and beneficial results. When leaders adopt this mindset, they frequently spark cultural change, inspire others, and energise their teams.
Positive deviance encourages us to seek out and amplify what is already effective. In organisations, this could be a team that thrives in the face of change or an individual who consistently inspires others. Rather than focusing on fixing what is broken, this approach aims to build on what is already strong.
Creating a positive climate
A positive climate is one in which people feel emotionally supported, valued, and safe. It is about fostering a work environment where people can thrive. According to research, a leader’s mood can influence up to 70% of their team’s experience. This means every interaction counts.
Positive emotions, such as gratitude, appreciation, and compassion, help build resilience, improve collaboration, and boost performance. Leaders can foster this by acknowledging contributions, demonstrating care in daily interactions, and providing opportunities to celebrate both small and large wins.