Don’t underestimate the power of positive thinking

Wednesday, 2nd September 2009

Australian conservatives could turn their current woes around if only they would lighten up, says John Heard

To succeed in this context, conservatives who have been waiting for a chance to try out their leadership potential should project energy and enthusiasm. They must smile. They must laugh at themselves. They must embody the qualities of the kind of Australia — hopefully, relaxed and confident — that they wish to promote. If the Liberals are to be the party of sustainable growth, if they are to beat the Rudd government on emissions trading and any other policy debate, they must have more and better answers. They must be like David Cameron’s Tories. They must surprise doubters with the wisdom and clarity of their proposals. They must unite, even if it hurts at first, because success is a wonderful salve. They must turn the expectation that they will fail to their advantage.

Indeed, if they were thinking at all, Australian conservatives would recognise in these otherwise miserable circumstances a potent opportunity. It is always easier, of course, to impress when the bar is set low, and the bar, in Australian conservative circles, is set about as low right now as it has been at any time in the last two decades. An ordinary leader can shine, in that light — and a great leader will dominate.

Finally, it is often said that one’s best ideas in opposition are either stolen or else go unnoticed. Australian conservatives cannot indulge that sort of cynicism. They must start treating the current ordeal as a prelude to victory, even if no one else agrees yet. Certainly, few will fault an ideas-rich, clever opposition, and a leader ready with a confident counter to the government line is already a winner.

Certainly, Australian conservatives can disengage from the recent silliness, and turn their political fortunes around. But they must have a light touch. They must be clever and energetic, and they must persevere. Where there is no hope, of course it must be created. That is the essence of leadership, and there is little time to waste.