The Good News We Overlook: Jamaica’s Hidden Progress

Recently, two significant improvements in Jamaica have quietly emerged, yet they’ve gone largely unnoticed. Why does good news often slip through the cracks? And what can leaders learn from this tendency?

Consider this: positive news rarely makes for catchy headlines. During a recent trip to Trinidad, I was taken aback by the country’s progress. Reflecting on it, I realized how much I had been influenced by sensationalist headlines that painted a grim picture. Anyone skimming the news could easily miss the real story.

Is Jamaica facing a similar situation? Over the past decade, two major indicators have shown remarkable improvement. First, our debt-to-GDP ratio has plummeted from a staggering 144% to 62%, earning praise from international bodies like the World Bank and the IMF. Second, our homicide rate has decreased by 35%, a change that resonates deeply within our communities. Yet, despite these achievements, many still feel that things are getting worse. Why is that?

The Bad News Bias

Human nature seems to gravitate toward bad news, especially when it’s sudden and shocking. Good news, on the other hand, often unfolds gradually and quietly. Sure, a Jamaican sprinting world record might grab attention, but such moments are rare. Most of our daily conversations revolve around unwelcome surprises.

This phenomenon is mirrored in corporate life. Have you noticed how quickly rumors of misconduct or disloyalty spread in your workplace? Such narratives feed cynicism, leading to a distorted view of reality. As a leader, you might feel frustrated. Even when you highlight positive developments, employees may perceive you as merely defending your ego.

To change this narrative, it’s essential to frame progress within a compelling context.

Harnessing Today’s Drama

In 2025, we find ourselves in a world filled with extraordinary events. The U.S. government has turned global affairs into a daily soap opera, providing endless distractions. How can we leverage this energy?

Take a cue from Apple CEO Tim Cook. He often speaks about the “long arc of time” when addressing pressing issues, which gives Apple a strategic advantage over competitors focused solely on immediate fixes. Recently, Apple secured a temporary exemption from harsh tariffs, reminding us that it’s crucial to maintain focus on the bigger picture.

Imagine owning a T-shirt company. While many dread the chaos of election season, a savvy business could seize the moment to create custom campaign merchandise, riding the electoral wave to success.

Embracing Disruption

Consider the late Brazilian race car driver Ayrton Senna, who thrived in wet conditions. While others complained, he saw opportunity. By preparing for such challenges, he gained a competitive edge.

What if your organization welcomed disruptions, viewing them as opportunities for growth? With a long-term vision, you can reframe both gradual improvements and sudden shocks as part of a larger narrative.

Continuous communication with your team is vital. Share a balanced, long-term perspective that doesn’t rely on sensationalist news or social media. When your team views challenges through the lens of a broader vision, they transform from fire alarms into fuel for breakthroughs.

As we navigate this complex landscape, how can we ensure that the good news doesn’t get lost in the noise? What steps can we take to shift our focus from the sensational to the substantial?