Many traditional managers take a deep pessimistic and suspicious approach to working with their folks - employees, peers and bosses.

Yet others take a view that is optimistic and progressive.  I think when I had my sales organizations or ran the service centers, I was mostly this type.

Well, which approach would you say is better?

Now that am a little wiser, I suggest you balance the two extremes.  Work to fall somewhere in between.  I personally prefer a strong dose of optimism myself.  That's just me!  Extreme pessimism and suspicion brings people down.  I am an upbeat person myself and would rather keep folks pumped up more often than not!