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The Fountain Mindset: Transforming Teams with Positive Power


“A fountain mindset fills every moment with energy, growth, and possibility.”

Why does it feel so heavy every time I talk to him?” Ria asked, slumping into her chair after a meeting. Her colleague Raj smiled knowingly. “That’s because he’s a ‘drain,’ Ria. Ever noticed how some people leave you energized, while others leave you exhausted?  Ria nodded. Sometimes I wish he would be more like Monica.  She’s always so positive and uplifting. Even during challenges, she is so inspiring.”

 

 “That’s the difference.” Raj went on to say. “Monica is a ‘fountain.’ She pours energy, ideas, and solutions into the team. It’s a mindset you can adopt too—it’s all about choosing how you show up.

She has a Fountain Mindset”

 

What is the Fountain Mindset? 

In every interaction, you either bring value or drain it.  A drain mindset pulls from others—complaining, criticizing, or focusing on problems. On the other hand, a fountain mindset, however, radiates positivity, ideas, and support. It’s about being the person who energizes a room rather than sapping its spirit. 

This isn’t about fake optimism. It’s about cultivating a mindset that uplifts, empowers, and inspires those around you, even in challenging times. 

 

As leaders, your mindset sets the tone for your team.  Fountain leaders uplift their teams in times of challenges and bring hope. Generally, these leaders leave their teams feeling better than before. They balance accountability with positivity, encouragement, and enthusiasm.

You can recognize a leader with a fountain mindset when they:

  • Focus on solutions, not just problems. 

  • Create an environment of trust and encouragement. 

  • Listen and support their team. 

  • Share credit and celebrate small wins.

  • Have open and honest communication. 

 

We all go through moments in our day when we have drain-like mindsets, complain and grumble.  But we can cultivate a Fountain Mindset by doing the following five things:

1. Start with Self-Awareness

Think about your interactions during the day.  Do you complain more than help resolve things?  Catch yourself when you lean toward negativity and reframe those statements into more positive ones. 

 

2. Develop an Attitude of Gratitude

Gratitude helps us focus on the positives.  Begin meetings by acknowledging what’s working well before getting into what needs to be improved.

 

3. Speak with Intent

Your words have power. Use them to encourage and inspire your teams. Avoid gossip or unnecessary criticism—it drains energy from the room. 

 

4. Stay Solution-Oriented

Every challenge is an opportunity to grow. Instead of focusing on obstacles, encourage brainstorming to find solutions. Provide a safe space for your teams to share their thoughts, you will be surprised at the results you get!

 

5. Recharge Yourself

You can’t give your best to others if you run on an empty charge. Prioritise self-care and personal growth to recharge yourself to bring energy and positivity to those around you.

 

Developing a Fountain Mindset is a choice. It’s about consciously deciding to be a source of positivity. The next time you have a conversation, ask yourself: Am I adding value or subtracting it? With the fountain mindset, you’ll be the person others are grateful to work with—someone who inspires and leaves a lasting impact. 

Varsha is an executive communication coach whose speciality is working with leaders to improve performance and engagement through better communication.

She comes with a rich corporate experience of twelve years of training in the field of communication. Varsha has worked with entrepreneurs, professionals, and senior managers and helped them advance in their careers by helping them overcome their limiting beliefs and scale greater heights. Her approach is highly personalized and her programs are customized to each client.

She is a qualified TEFL / TESOL trainer, Emotional Intelligence Coach, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Practitioner, Neuro-Linguistic Programming Practitioner and Certified Counsellor.

To know more visit www.thewinningimpression.com

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