Ending my week long Sea World theme, I wanted to share this great book I have believed in for a long time.

This book is a lot about moving from management to leadership with great results. Based on the experience a manager has going to Sea World. He is amazed that they do not treat the killer whales negatively. There is no punishment when the whales do something bad instead they are just redirected to another activity. When the whales do something good, they are rewarded with positive reinforcement which is rewarded in hugs, rubs, fish, etc.

It all makes sense; how are you going to hit the number predator in the ocean with a stick then get in the water with whale and hope it doesn’t eat you.

In reality, it works great with people as well. Positive reinforcement allows people to keep moving forward instead of stopping because of self doubt or fear. Hearing negative things keeps us from believing in ourselves and taking the risks needed to truly live more productive lives. This is not about making people feel good, just to feel good. It is all about getting better results.

I know I have worked with and been friends with a lot of people who were very negative. I also noticed how my life, back then, was full of  self doubt and less action. It is when I got positive reinforcement I are really able to make great things happen. Again, this wasn’t people telling me I was great all the time just because. It was about the people in my life believing in me, supporting me and appreciating me.

Take a look at this book. It is a great story and a simple read. You will get so much from it.