Yes. We can be optimistic in Detroit. And we really need to be.
Things are starting to turn around here in Motown. The Auto Show was very well attended, private party bookings were up, friends who are looking for jobs have started to find them, and businesses seem to be investing money and resources into growth-oriented activities.
I mentioned last week or so that I had a fascinating interview with Nic Milani of Havis. I still need to write up the post, but another interesting part of that conversation came to mind today. The conversations we have – around a living room, at a bar, in the workplace, at the airport, everywhere – are self perpetuating. If we continuously engage in negative conversations about the doom and gloom, then you know what? It’s going to lead to more doom and gloom. At least that’s how it’s going to feel. Instead, if we focus on some of the positive news that is starting to break, attitudes will start to change. Optimism is contagious. If we start talking things up, things are going to slowly start to come up, more people will keep the positive conversations going and they will spread to other parts of the country and the world. It really is up to us.
So give optimism a go. We have a great city, full of fantastic businesses and some of the strongest people in the country. Change the tone of your conversations and see what happens. If nothing else, I think it will make you feel a bit better. Cheers!
