Starting weekly tactical meetings with a positive check-in has become a standard practice for many small business teams. It’s that moment when everyone shares personal or business good news to set a warm, upbeat tone before diving into strategy.
Some executives love it, citing the camaraderie and rapport it builds. Others? Not so much. They might find it awkward or feel like it’s a forced exercise in positivity—especially when challenges in business or life loom large.
I get it. As someone who grew up behind the Iron Curtain, where sharing blessings was considered bragging and frowned upon, I wasn’t exactly a fan of check-ins when I first encountered them in EOS Level 10 meetings. Vulnerability didn’t come naturally, and I worried about oversharing or making others uncomfortable.
But here’s why I’ve become a convert to positive check-ins:
1. Good vibes energize everyone.
We’re drowning in a sea of negativity—social media drama, bad news cycles, and pessimistic chatter. Sharing good news is a simple yet powerful way to counteract all that toxicity. It injects energy and optimism into the room, setting a collaborative and constructive tone.
2. Relatability builds trust.
When we reveal snippets of our personal lives, we become more relatable. Sharing isn’t about boasting; it’s about showing that we’re human. Vulnerability encourages reciprocity, fostering trust and connection. As Patrick Lencioni points out in The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, trust is foundational for meaningful discussions and smart decision-making. One-on-one check-ins using the Mentor Meeting Model™ can reinforce this trust, ensuring team members feel seen and supported beyond just the weekly tactical meeting.
3. Positivity resets the room.
Positive check-ins help everyone let go of outside distractions and focus on what matters—moving the business forward. My own Gen Z team even requested we spice things up with icebreaker questions. Now, we kick off meetings with lighthearted laughs and quirky stories, which have significantly boosted engagement and productivity.
Beyond check-ins, structured weekly metrics also keep the team focused. Using a Scoreboard Sketcher™, leaders can track progress in a way that feels motivating rather than overwhelming, ensuring everyone stays aligned on what success looks like each week.
4. It’s a gratitude practice in disguise.
Sharing good news isn’t just for others—it’s for you too. Reflecting on the positives in your life reinforces gratitude, which, as countless studies show, enhances well-being. And let’s be honest: who doesn’t need a little mood boost these days?
For the cost of just five minutes a week, positive check-ins are a simple way to transform team dynamics, foster trust, and recharge your mindset.
What’s your take—do you check-in positive? Let me know in the comments or hit reply to share your thoughts!
P.S. Stay tuned! Next week, I’ll share details about the Seal Camp for the founding cohort of Summit OS Guides™.
