I have been thinking about thinking for as long as I can remember. I have wondered about how our thoughts shape our reality, open doors, and impact what we feel, say and do—for better or for worse. As a psychologist, my research and professional practice revolve around how people can learn to “think about their thinking” and then direct their thinking in ways that promote inspiring work and a rewarding life. My colleagues and I have coined the term Asset-Based Thinking (ABT) to describe the mindset and thinking patterns that promote top-performance; strong, collaborative relationships; confidence; character; resilience and optimism. When people intentionally concentrate on what is strong, best, working and possible, they stack the odds in their favor and their performance soars!
For the past 30 years I have developed ABT practices to foster top-performing leaders, teams and organizations in business and healthcare. With amazing clients and colleagues, I have been exploring the question, “How can your mindset and thinking patterns inspire exceptional leadership, teamwork and organizational effectiveness?” This exploration has led to insights and practical ABT approaches to optimize results in a wide range of circumstances, such as downsizings, mergers, major changes in direction, growth by acquisition and leadership transitions. ABT approaches also support leaders and teams in overcoming adversity, enrolling and inspiring others to meet—and exceed—challenging goals, resolving conflicts, building collaboration and spurring innovations. It has increased my belief that how we think determines how effective and productive we are. This work has renewed my faith in the power of the “positive” (not the negative) to shape our past, present and future for the better.
Most recently, with the help of brilliant collaborators, I have expanded ABT practices to foster top-performing teens, teachers and schools. ABT helps teens avoid the traps of mindless “group think”, debilitating self-consciousness, and damaging peer rivalries. Teens who practice ABT not only sidestep some of the development pitfalls of being a teenager, they also cultivate the positive benchmarks of youth development. Teenagers who practice ABT turnout to be more compelling leaders and collaborative team players. They are more self-directed and take the initiative to solve problems. ABT helps teens find their voice and to influence others to join their cause. These positive benchmarks of teen development have been identified as the skills necessary to be successful in the 21st century. I believe ABT practices are powerful tools in the hands of teachers, parents, administrators, and volunteer leaders who are dedicated to equipping teens with life and career skills, as well as with academic proficiencies.
I have been a speaker, consultant and author since 1978. I have been inside many kinds of organizations, including Fortune 100 companies, churches, non-profit agencies, schools, youth groups and the United States Air Force. This diversity of interest in Asset-Based Thinking has been surprising and heartening. I am thrilled and inspired by the range of people and institutions who are committed to finding new ways of thinking about—and creating—the “next, best version” of themselves and their future.
I invite you to join the Positive Conspiracy by becoming a champion of Asset-Based Thinking. You can browse through my podcasts, videos, online articles and interviews, books and programs on this website. I hope you will continue exploring how we can work together to infuse ABT into what matters most to you.
