Optimism Is a Force Multiplier

Optimism is a Force Multiplier

Force multiplication is an ancient concept, involving combining a variety of factors to deliver an effectiveness beyond that of a force of a comparable size.

Common force multipliers include: technology, training, geography, and organization.

These tactics have been in use for ages, including use by the Mongols, with their swarming tactics that overpowered so many of their opponents.

Force multiplication can mean a smaller, better organized and trained force, with advantages such as technology and positioning, can overcome a much larger force, with less training and without the other advantages. In the end, force multiplication means simply that size is not everything.

In addition to physical factors equating to force multiplication, as well as more strategic factors, such as positioning, organization and training, morale is another significant factor that can facilitate force multiplication.

Napoleon was a great believer in the power of morale. He is noted as saying, "There are only two forces in the world, the sword and the spirit. In the long run the sword will always be conquered by the spirit" (cited in Moore, 2006).

Former Secretary of State and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Colin Powell has further clarified this belief to specifically note the benefit of perpetual optimism as a force multiplier.

A leader's enthusiasm and optimism is powerful and can create a ripple effect through their subordinates. It is this perpetual optimism that Powell surmises as one of the most powerful force multipliers available (Harari, 2002). And it is this positive, can-do attitude that is contagious.

A soldier who believes that they and their fellows can accomplish amazing goals is far superior to one who whines and complains about his situation and focuses on the possible negatives or challenges that may be difficult to overcome. A smaller force of enthusiastic, optimistic soldiers are far more effective than a greater sized force that has no confidence in their ability to complete their mission.

The smaller force's perpetual optimism is a force multiplier, making them more powerful than their pessimistic, but larger opponents.

Showing pessimism in one's abilities gives the opponent an advantage that could mean the difference between success and defeat.