Attitude

Definition: A complex mental state involving beliefs and feelings and values and
dispositions to act in certain ways; "he had the attitude that work was fun"

Attitude is a mental position relative to a way of thinking or being. The current popular
usage of attitude implies a negative mind set, a "chip on the shoulder" behavior, and an
inner anger toward the prevailing majority of thought. From a personal development
standpoint and attitude is broader than this popular usage. A positive attitude implies a
way of thinking that is predominantly positive and optimistic. The opposite inclination, a
negative attitude is predominantly pessimistic.

Example: Though Jeremy was ashamed that he had alienated his friends by whining and
complaining, he decided to adopt a positive attitude about his ability to reverse this
behavior and regain friendships lost. He was confident that his apologies and changed
behavior would regain the friendships.

Positive Attitude

Benefits of Positive Thinking, Positive Mental Attitude and Optimism.

Positive attitude, positive thinking, and optimism are now known to be a root cause of
many positive life benefits--the good life and well being. You'll live longer and be
healthier and happier with a positive attitude toward life. In addition, you're more likely
to be successful. Learn to use the power of thinking positive, adopting positive attitudes,
and affirmations to gain important life benefits.

What is Attitude?

Attitude is a mental position relative to a way of thinking or being; a leaning toward that
which you believe. A positive attitude is, therefore, the inclination to generally be in an
optimistic, hopeful state of mind.

Psychology Studies Reveals that a positive attitude and optimistic thinking early in life
predict health and well being in later years. Analysis of 99 Harvard graduates found a
strong correlation between their optimistic thinking as college students and good health
at age 40 and above.

In his ground-breaking book, A Primer in Positive Psychology, Christopher Petersen,

PhD, says, "...optimism has demonstrable benefits, and pessimism has drawbacks." He
goes on to say, "...optimism...has been linked to positive mood and good morale; to
perseverance and effective problem solving; to academic, athletic, military, occupational,
and political success; to popularity; to good health; and even to long life and freedom
from trauma."

Even if you have been a pessimistic, negative thinker for many years, it's not too late to
change your way of thinking and reap the benefits of a positive attitude.
Characteristics of a Positive Attitude and Optimism

Optimists believe they are accountable for good things and that good things will
generally come their way. If something bad comes instead, optimists tend to write it off
as an isolated incident, an anomaly, or something out of their control; optimists believe
things will be better in the future.

Positive Thinking Takes Practice

If you're a person whose first thoughts about the meaning of something that's happened
are negative thoughts, be encouraged by the knowledge that the first step toward a
positive attitude and positive thinking is to simply think another thought. Thoughts are
under your control. Your pessimistic way of thinking is habit; habits can be changed.

• When you catch yourself thinking a pessimistic thought about an event in your
life, first evaluate the evidence. What are the facts--not the fears--but the facts?
• Next, think of alternate explanations and future outcomes. When your old car
suddenly makes a strange noise you may jump to the pessimistic conclusion that
repair will be costly, but maybe a minor repair will solve the problem.
• Remind yourself to follow this approach with a daily affirmation such as this:
When I have a negative thought I immediately evaluate the facts and think of
positive alternatives that also fit the facts.

Practice the positive thinking approach outlined above and you'll find it soon comes
naturally. You may be amazed to realize that you simply feel better with a positive
attitude.

Attitude is the underlying way we think, feel and act -- how we react to the world around
us. It determines the quality and effectiveness of all of our thinking, emotions and
behavior ... and, thereby, the positive or negative consequences of that behavior.

Attitude is the one thing we can count on as a lifetime companion. Jobs and relationships
come and go, but your attitude is always with you. You can't take a vacation from
yourself!

Attitude is based upon our expectations and perceptions -- our definition of reality.

3 Types of People -- 3 Different Attitudes

Each of the following has the same job, but notices their attitudes:

Susan Spectator likes the predictability and limited responsibility of her job. She feels
most comfortable when others make the important decisions. She feels threatened when
anything out of the norm happens and calls her manager for instructions. She never feels
certain about anything and has difficulty making commitments.

Carl Critic feels frustrated in his job, but at least it gives him a chance to complain and to
vent his frustrations on all the "idiots" he deals with. When confronted with his mistakes,
he looks for excuses and others to blame. He hates what he regards as impositions placed
on him by coworkers and customers. His negative opinions are known by all.
Paula Player views her job as an opportunity to experience the thrill of competence and
meeting progressive challenges. She enjoys interacting with her coworkers, customers
and management. When she makes a mistake, she acknowledges it to herself and to
those impacted by it ... and then looks to see how she can correct it and learn from it.

Susan Spectator, Carl Critic and Paula Player exemplify three very different ways of
approaching life and relating to others -- three different attitudes:

1. Spectators with Neutral Attitudes Spectators watch life happen and observe
others. They play it safe and try to avoid risks. Spectators are afraid of change.
They often are tired or detached. Their defining word is: Maybe. Their prevailing
action: Coast... Typical phrases: I doubt it, I might, I don't know and I'm hesitant.
2. Critics with Negative Attitudes Critics comment on life and complain. They
critique after the fact, imposing their "expertise" and finding fault in others.
Critics are annoyed about change. They often appear frustrated or pessimistic.
Their defining word is: No! Their prevailing action: Stop! Typical phrases: I can't,
I won't, No way and you made me.
3. Players with Positive Attitudes Players actively participate in life and
embrace opportunities. They take risks and are willing to make mistakes. Players
enjoy learning and change. They usually are confident and optimistic. Their
defining word is: Yes! Their prevailing action: Go! Typical phrases: I can, I will,
I'm sure and I choose to.