Positive Manipulation-A tool for creating success.

Does positive manipulation exist? In my opinion, YES! It can be a useful tool for reaching our goals. And it can be a useful skill for navigating the world, reinforcing positive behavior.

Manipulation is usually thought of as a negative term, involving taking advantage of someone or something. It can be defined as influencing a person, place or thing to get what we want. It can also be defined as a way to manage or utilize something skillfully.

In reaching a desired outcome, we skillfully utilize opportunities that we encounter. Maybe we call it networking, or taking action/initiative. This action does not have to be malicious or devious. We identify opportunities that serve as steps in reaching our goals in life,  and we take these steps for achieving our goals in life.

As children, we naturally manipulated our environments as a way to learn about the world around us and how to get our needs met. When behaviors are reinforced with rewards or attention, children are likely to repeat the behaviors. By using positive rewards and responses, we positively manipulate a child’s behavior.

Whether as a child or as an adult, when positive behaviors are rewarded, behaviors are “manipulated” in a positive direction. Success is likely to occur, goals are reached, and outcomes are likely to be positive.

So go ahead and positively manipulate your path to success. Your goals are achievable so seize the opportunities presented to you and believe in yourself and trust the path you have chosen to embrace.