Appreciative inquiry. enhancing the positive

Appreciative Inquiry is an approach focused on discovering and enhancing the positive aspects and strengths of a person, group or organization, rather than focusing primarily on problems or deficits.

It is based on the idea that what we focus our attention on tends to grow and that a positive vision of the future inspires action.

Definition and Fundamental Principle

Appreciative Inquiry involves being curious ("inquiry") about what we value and what works well ("appreciate") with the goal of making it grow.

"Appreciate" has a double meaning: to value something and also to increase its value or grow. This approach is underpinned by several key principles.

Principles of Appreciative Inquiry

Constructionist Principle ("Words create worlds"): El lenguaje que utilizamos para describir nuestra realidad y a nosotros mismos tiene el poder de construir esa realidad.

Negative language ("I'm an idiot," "this is going to be horrible") creates a world of anxiety and fear, while positive, hopeful language ("this is an opportunity to learn") builds a reality of possibility and curiosity.

Principle of Simultaneity ("The first question initiates change"): La primera pregunta que nos hacemos sobre una situación o sobre nosotros mismos ya comienza a dirigir el proceso de cambio.

Asking "What is wrong with me?" focuses on the problem and guilt, while asking "What do I want to be better?" orients toward the future and hope.

Poetic Principle ("What we focus on, grows"): El tiempo, la energía y la atención que dedicamos a algo tienden a magnificarlo.

If we focus on problems, they will grow in our perception; if we focus on opportunities and strengths, they will expand.

It is similar to confirmation bias, where we look for evidence for what we already believe.

Anticipatory Principle ("A positive image inspires positive action"): Crear una visión positiva y convincente de lo que se desea alcanzar es más probable que alinee nuestros comportamientos con esa visión.

If we can vividly imagine a desired future, it is easier to move toward it.

Positive Principle ("Positive affect le