communications – Surprised By Joy

“Remember: Not all positive change feels positive in the beginning.” – S.C. Lourie

This is a friendly warning: It’s risky to comment on this blog. I’m joking, of course, but have a great example of no good comment goes unpunished. 🙂

A couple of weeks ago Brian Hannon commented that he approached finding positivity from another perspective on the How to Share Optimism podcast I did with Mark Petruska. To hear Brian describe it, it’s like peeling back an onion. The outer layers are the risks of a thing, whether it be an idea, invitation, initiative, or something else. Those layers need to be dealt with before reaching the savory goodness on the inside.

At which point, I invited Brian on the podcast to talk about his approach of sharing risks.

As a corporate communications professional, Brian Hannon has incredible wisdom about identifying risks and communicating effectively. In this episode of the How to Share podcast, Brian shares his unique perspective on optimism, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging risks and challenges before moving towards a positive outlook.

Brian discusses the role of authenticity in communication, the balance between optimism and realism, and how humor can help navigate difficult conversations. Our conversation also touches on parenting and the lessons learned from life’s challenges, ultimately highlighting the value of embracing discomfort for personal growth.

Takeaways

Brian sees risks and challenges first before finding positives.
Acknowledging failure is crucial for a realistic perspective.
Authenticity is essential in communication and leadership.
Humor helps in delivering downsides without negativity.
Writing helps clarify thoughts and learn from experiences.
Embracing discomfort can lead to long-term growth.
Balancing perspectives can enhance collaboration and understanding.
Life’s challenges often provide valuable lessons.
Parenting influences how we perceive risks and challenges.
Finding a middle ground between optimism and realism is key.

Here’s a preview of Brian’s grounded and resilient approach:

Here are some ways you can listen and watch this incredible episode:

The podcast player embedded below
Click this link to watch in a browser: How to Share Risks with Brian Hannon
Subscribe to How To Share on Spotify, Amazon Music, or Apple Podcasts
Subscribing to the YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@howtosharepodcast

Please listen, watch, provide feedback and subscribe.

Who's In Your Corner? The 5 People Who Shape Who You Are – The Life of Try: Personal growth, one try at a time.

Who’s in your corner? Discover the five people who shape who you are and how the right support system helps you take bold tries, chase big goals, and grow.Neuroscientist David Eagleman suggests we’re shaped by the people we spend the most time with.In this episode of Life of Try, Wynne Leon shares stories from climbing Mt. Rainier, mentors who cheer from the sidelines, and hiking with her kids to reveal the five people everyone needs:The Yes’ers who turn crazy ideas into plans. The Guides who share their notes. The Counterpoint who gives you the gift of a pause. The Foundation who shows up when things fall apart. The Visionaries who remind you that you can do great things.This week’s challenge:Name your five, thank one of them, and be that person for someone else. Because you were never meant to try alone.For a companion listen, check out The Power of Saying Yes with Natasha Dillinger.Follow Life of Try on Spotify and tap the bell so you never miss the next try. Topics:personal growth, motivation, friendship, mentorship, courage, support systems, and adventure.

Links for this episode:

⁠Brian’s blog: Writing from the Heart with Brian⁠

⁠Brian Hannon⁠ on LinkedIn

(featured photo from Pexels)