There are many things in life that we don’t have the power to change. Weather, time, certain circumstances…
One thing that we can change is our attitude.
Some of us are pessimists, and others, optimists. We can strive to develop a positive attitude or remain negative – it’s a choice.
A pessimist expects things to go wrong and dwells on the negative while an optimist maximizes the positive and minimizes the negative. Making a conscious choice to develop a positive attitude and live “in the now” has many rewards. A positive attitude can do wonders for your self-esteem and can also affect the lives of others.
Living many of my earlier years as a pessimist, I regrettably admit: I missed many opportunities, short-changed my own happiness and peace of mind, and missed out on many of the little joys that life had to offer. Today, I find it more important than ever to strive to maintain a positive attitude. For my mental health and physical. For my wife. For my family. For living a happier, longer life well into my senior years.
Today, I implore my fellow retirees, those within the bounds of midlife, and even any younger audience that I may reach to ask yourselves these simple questions: What does a negative attitude do for me? and, What does a positive attitude do for me?
I’ve taken the time to answer these questions for myself, and, I no longer feel the internal battle that I used to. Sure, I struggle on some days – and, you will too. But, I assure you that by gaining a little perspective, it can be easier.
What does a negative attitude do for me?
- Creates stress
- Keeps me from developing myself to my full potential
- Causes physical problems – headaches, unsettled stomach, and lack of sleep
- Causes fatigue
- Increases fear
- Affects my life decisions
- Keeps me in a state of blame and procrastination
- Effects the lives of those around me
- Stands in my way of meeting goals
- Stands in my way of succeeding
- Produces doubt and anger
- Produces insecurity
- Takes away positive energy
What does a positive attitude do for me?
- Helps me cope better with unforeseen circumstances
- Helps me experience joy
- Makes me happier
- Brings optimism into my life
- Makes it easier to avoid worry
- Gives me self-esteem and confidence
- Brings me inner peace
- Gives me the power to inspire and motivate myself and others
- Others enjoy being around me
- Inspires me to succeed
- Gives me a greater appreciation for the little things
- Helps me maintain hope during difficult times
- Allows me to love fuller
- Gives me more self-respect and respect for others
- Enables me to move along without too much ego
“Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference”
Robert Fowler
Contributing WriterRobert Fowler is a retired blogger who lives with his wife, Mary Ann at Village at Deaton Creek, a Del Webb Community in North Georgia. Robert was previously the President of Retirement Media Inc. He has visited numerous 55+ Active Adult Communities over the years, sharing his experiences along the way with readers. View more posts
