Monday, October 18, 2010

So, How’s Your Attitude?

The only disability in life is a bad attitude.  -Scott Hamilton 

I want you to seriously consider what kind of attitude you are walking around with each day.  A positive attitude can have a powerful impact on how we handle stress, problems, worries, and the issues we confront on a day-to-day basis.  So, what is your attitude like these days?  Are you sullen, angry, uptight, moody, stressed, bitter, and pessimistic?  If you answered “yes” to any of these, then take heart; there is hope for you.  Let me tell you a story:

A friend of mine who is a minister to students at a church in North Carolina was telling me about a boy in his youth group.  The young man would complain about everything, he whined constantly, was never happy, and went out of his way to let everyone else know how unfair life always was.  My friend described the young man as “insufferable.” Eventually, the young man finished High School and went away to college.  However, when he returned home the following summer, he was like a different person.  He had somehow become a young man with a more positive outlook.  According to my friend, the change was remarkable and much for the better. 

My friend indicated that the change went beyond just growing a little older and wiser.  This young man had apparently made a conscious decision to become more positive and outgoing.  You are capable of doing the same; I assure you that it can be done.  An insufferable person can indeed change into an optimist with a brighter and happier perspective on life.  So, how is this accomplished?  Here are some strategies that I believe will work, for they have worked for me and continue to do so:

-Start thinking more positive thoughts.  What goes on in our minds has a way of working into our words and attitudes.  When you feel the negative creeping in, take charge of your thought processes and resolve to fill your mind with positive images.  Try reading the Bible each morning (the Psalms are wonderful), pray, or go back and re-read a book that touched and inspired you.  Turn off the TV for a while and go for a walk. 

-Stop complaining.  Resolve to utter only positive, encouraging, and helpful comments.  For many of us, this will eliminate about half of what we say – and that’s okay!  You will in the process become a better listener; and your family, friends, and co-workers will notice the difference and will love you for it. 

-Develop a sense of humor.  Learn to laugh often at life in general and ourselves in particular.    

-Resolve to be happy right now.  Learn to enjoy the moment; a beautiful sunrise or sunset, a hot cup of coffee, a walking the dog, a few quiet moments with your spouse, child, or grandchild.  Stop waiting for large happy experiences and seize the smaller ones when they come.   

Are you feeling better?  I thought so.  Have a great day!

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