'A' is for Attitude

I was at the Air Canada counter in Florida last week and had the nicest woman helping me. She was customer-service oriented and refreshingly positive and upbeat. Amazing how a short exchange with a person like this can really change your mood and make your entire day. Attitude is something we choose, every day, every minute. Some people are naturally cheerful. For others, it takes a little more effort to project a good attitude. How do we keep a positive attitude about our work, our colleagues and our clients?

- Don’t take things personally. See situations as an interested third party “Isn’t that interesting how angry she is.” or “I wonder why he feels so strongly about this.”
- Be curious. Be curious about why a person is saying what she is saying; be curious about why a person feels a certain way.
- See possibilities and opportunities. The glass is always full. There is something to learn or a way to grow in every interaction and situation. See the potential in even the hardest situations.
- Be engaged. Having a great attitude is much easier when you embrace your work and role. You can do this even if you don’t love your job. Putting energy into your work gives you a lot back in return.
- Take pride in your work. You may not always get the recognition you want, but you can always seek validation internally that you are doing a good job and making a difference.