How does any experience change when approached from the mindset of “I get to” instead of “I have to?”
When leaders approach their responsibilities with the mindset of “I get to,” everything changes.
Instead of feeling burdened by tasks, positive leaders see them as opportunities for growth and impact. You get to set the tone for your team, create a positive work environment, and contribute to the success of your community and franchise brand.
“I get to” implies choice and abundance. It reframes challenges as chances to showcase my leadership skills and make a difference. It transforms mundane tasks into meaningful contributions to the success of your business. The positive energy from this mindset is contagious, influencing your team, your community, and the overall atmosphere of the franchise.
The “I get to” mindset turns responsibilities into privileges, making each day an exciting journey rather than a checklist of duties.
Nehemiah 2:18 – “And I told them of the hand of my God that had been upon me for good, and also of the words that the king had spoken to me. And they said, ‘Let us rise up and build.’ So they strengthened their hands for the good work.”
In my first year with Webelos, we sold live Christmas wreaths and decorations. The ten-year-old who sold the most earned a 4-person tent for the annual camping trip.
Going to the supermarket 6 consecutive Saturday mornings and sitting at the Christmas-themed card table for 3 hours at a time seemed like a nightmare, even though I set up next to the bakery with delicious elephant ears. (Thank you, Mom!) That’s 18 hours of my life I chose to be miserable and envious of my friends watching cartoons.
I won the tent.
The Saturday mornings the following year were positively productive. I could envision the rewards and the future camping trips with my dad.
To make the “I get to” mindset a habit, try one or more of these proactive steps:
- Morning Reflection: Each morning, take a few moments to reflect on the positive aspects of your role. Who can you positively impact today, and how?
- Gratitude Journaling: Keeping a gratitude journal helps you recognize the blessings and privileges associated with your leadership role. It shifts your focus from tasks to the reasons to be grateful for the responsibilities.
- Setting Positive Intentions: Set positive intentions for the day before diving into tasks. I visualize successful outcomes and the satisfaction that comes with fulfilling my role.
- Mindfulness Practices: Incorporating mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing or short meditation breaks, helps you stay present and appreciative of the moment.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledging and celebrating small victories reinforces the positive aspects of your responsibilities. It creates a cycle of positivity and motivation.
- Surround Yourself with Positivity: Engaging with positive content, whether through reading, podcasts, or conversations with uplifting individuals, reinforces the “I get to” mindset.
- Continuous Learning: Embracing a mindset of continuous learning and growth in each conversation reminds me that every challenge is an opportunity to enhance my skills, experience, and knowledge.
By consistently practicing these steps, the “I get to” mindset becomes ingrained in your leadership approach, influencing your outlook and the way you navigate challenges.
I’d love to hear about your “I get to” moments and how you remind yourself when nothing in your day seems to go your way.
If you’re a franchise owner-operator and want to transition to owning multiple units and having a more significant “I get to” impact on others, check out the Franchisee Advanced Leadership Center Mastermind.
