Despite the mounting evidence, many leaders feel that a relentless focus on metrics, efficiency, and results is the only way to ensure success. But study after study shows that positive leadership actually boosts productivity, strengthens resilience, and inspires loyalty. And in today’s world, where burnout and disengagement are hitting record highs, we need positive leadership more than ever.
In this article, Kim Cameron, Professor and Co-founder of the Center for Positive Organizational Scholarship at The University of Michigan, breaks down how positive leadership transforms workplaces from the inside out, creating lasting, meaningful change that fuels success in ways you might not expect.
“Creating opportunities where we serve and do things together, those stick with us for much longer because we’re creating space for our humanity to truly arise.”
– Ashish Kothari
Positive meaning
Think of positive meaning as the “why” behind the work. It’s about creating purpose, so people feel their efforts are part of something bigger than just tasks and deadlines. When leaders focus on positive meaning, they’re giving their team a reason to show up, not just physically but mentally.
Studies show that when people see meaning in their work, they’re not only more motivated—they’re healthier and happier, too. In short: give people a purpose, and they’ll give you their best.
Positive climate
A positive climate is the “vibe” or energy in the workplace. Positive leaders create spaces that feel welcoming, uplifting, and energizing—where people don’t feel the need to just survive but actually enjoy being there.
Leaders can foster this by encouraging small actions like showing gratitude, sharing achievements, and promoting kindness and virtuousness, as Kim Cameron puts it.
“The single most important predictor of well-being and innovation is exposure to a positive leader.”
– Kim Cameron
A positive climate is the foundation for resilience and creativity. With the right climate, teams handle challenges better, communicate openly, and innovate more freely.
Positive relationships
Positive relationships are the social glue that holds teams together. It’s about fostering genuine connections, trust, and support. Leaders can build this by encouraging collaboration over competition, recognizing contributions, and showing empathy.
When people feel connected, they work better together, are more loyal, and even get a mental health boost. A positive relationship is like having a buddy on a tough hike—it doesn’t make the mountain smaller, but it sure makes the climb more enjoyable.
Positive communication
Positive leaders set the tone for respectful, constructive dialogue. This positive communication means focusing on what’s working, offering encouragement, and giving feedback that helps people grow rather than knocking them down.
Leaders practicing positive communication create an environment where people feel heard and supported, making it easier to solve problems and reach goals together. When leaders talk with care and purpose, teams listen—and they rise to the occasion.
Conclusion
It turns out that the real factors that make a leader truly impactful are not strategy, expertise, or vision, but their ability to inspire and energize people. These positive leaders create environments where people feel valued, motivated, and connected. So, if you’re looking to make a real difference, start by leading with positivity—it’s the leadership shift that brings lasting rewards for everyone.
Positive leadership is a proven driver of innovation and team well-being. Learn the real impact of positive leadership in our full interview with Ashish Kothari and Kim Cameron, Professor and Co-founder of the Center for Positive Organizational Scholarship at The University of Michigan.
Learn more about Kim at his LinkedIn.
Listen to the podcast with Ashish and Kim below.
Access and subscribe to all of the episodes of the Happiness Squad Podcast here.
Visit the REWIRE Program powered up by the HAPPINESS SQUAD Community and experience your shift within your 30-day risk-free trial today. Cultivate your Self-Awareness, Gratitude, Purpose, Community, and personal growth more through the 9 Hardwired for Happiness practices. Integrate simple and proven micro-practices grounded in the science of happiness and neuroscience of habit formation in 5 minutes a day.
Make Happiness Your Competitive Edge.
