I read about something leaders call the “Fortune Cookie Effect”. I have never heard the phrase, but I sure have seen it in operation. So have you. Simply put, the “Fortune Cookie Effect” is a prediction that causes itself to become true. Some call it a self-fulfilling prophecy. You’re the one that makes it come true. For example, a teacher might make up their mind that a certain student is a “bad apple”. Then, the teacher treats the student in a way that reflects that belief which causes the student to become a “bad apple” for real.
I’m no “pop psychologist” but I’ve seen this scenario: “negative thinking about yourself, tends to produce more negative thinking.”
But allow me to “flip the script.” When it comes to leadership, this can be an ally. You can change your behavior in such a way that you act in ways that cause it to become true. This, in some part, is what the Proverbssays “As a man thinks in his heart, so he is.” Paul puts it this way in Philippians 4:8, Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Since worry and anxiety are conditions of the mind, one of the best remedies is to push them aside with healthier thoughts. Use the “Fortune Cookie Effect” biblically to focus your heart and mind on things that will make a huge difference in your life and others.