You’ve heard it a thousand times in hundreds of different ways: attitude is everything. Seems simple, doesn’t it? Well, it is. At least, it should be.
So, why do so many of us go about our lives expecting the worst? Maybe your job isn’t everything you want it to be. Maybe it’s been a tough year for your family. Whatever the case, success and happiness are always in your grasp. The key is changing your perspective, and that starts with attitude.
There’s a story I’ve heard repeated dozens of times in the last few months. It goes something like this: “If you’re having a bad day, remember that in 1976, Apple co-founder Ronald Wayne sold his 10 percent stake in Apple for $800. Now it’s worth over $58,000,000,000.” Makes you wonder if you’re really having such a bad day, doesn’t it?
It’s all too easy to get lost in negative feelings and lose sight of what’s right in front of us. Whether you made a wrong turn or just woke up on the wrong side of the bed, there is a way out. Attitude is a choice, and it can be the difference between success and failure. Each day, take a moment before you walk out the door to put yourself in a positive frame of mind. Here are five tips to get you started:
1. Make friends with change.
No matter how many times we hear that change is inevitable, many of us have an instinct to resist it. Now is your chance to embrace it. Keep learning. Stay curious and remain open to new experiences.
2. Add a “to-be” list to your “to-do” list.
To-do lists are important–they keep us organized and motivated throughout the day. Successful people see beyond the to-do and imagine a to-be. Who do you want to be? What do you want to be and where do you want to be? Answer those questions, and let the answers inform your to-do list.
3. Credit the people around you.
If you want to be surrounded by great people, make sure to acknowledge their greatness. Be generous and genuine with compliments. You might be surprised by how people rise to a challenge when they feel empowered to do so.
4. Encourage success.
A rising tide lifts all boats. By spreading your positive attitude to those around you, you’re setting yourself up for success along with your colleagues. Positivity is contagious, so be the one to start the wave–it’ll come back around to you just when you need it.
5. Gratitude is the key.
Gratitude is a crucial part of any path to success. And, it’s pretty hard to be negative if you’re busy being grateful. Whether it’s your family, your health, or quality time spent with an old friend, keeping focused on the things that are going well in your life will invite other good things and keep you on the path to success.
Give these five tips a try over the next couple of weeks. Be mindful of the important things and focus on the big picture. I bet you’ll feel a whole lot better, and you might be surprised by all the good that comes your way.
