The Power of Attitude in 2024: A Key to Real Success

In the journey towards success in 2024 and beyond, it's not just about talent, skills, or opportunities that will propel you to success; rather, it's the lens through which we view the world that often shapes our destiny. One of the cornerstones of achieving real success, as highlighted by one of my mentors, renowned author, and leadership expert John C. Maxwell in his book "How To Be A Real Success," is the profound impact of one’s Attitude. Let's review the seven key insights from Maxwell's wisdom, exploring how our attitude can influence our professional and personal triumphs.

Attitude Is a Choice:

Maxwell emphasizes that attitude is not determined by external circumstances but is a conscious decision we make daily. Consider this: two individuals facing the same challenge may respond differently based on their attitudes. Choosing a positive attitude in the face of adversity sets the stage for resilience and growth. It's not about what happens to us but how we choose to respond.

Example: Imagine two employees facing a tight deadline. One sees it as an opportunity to showcase their efficiency, while the other views it as an insurmountable obstacle. The difference lies in their chosen attitudes.

Attitude Determines Our Approach to Life:

Our attitude acts as a compass, guiding our approach to life. Whether we face setbacks or achievements, our attitude shapes our response. An optimistic attitude fosters a proactive and solution-oriented approach, while a negative attitude may lead to passivity or blame.

Example: Picture two entrepreneurs encountering a business setback. The one with a positive attitude may see it as a chance to learn and adapt, while the other might perceive it as a sign of inevitable failure, hindering their progress.

Attitude Determines Our Relationship With People:

The quality of our relationships is intricately linked to our attitude. A positive attitude fosters collaboration, understanding, and effective communication, while a negative one can breed conflict and hinder teamwork.

Example: Consider a team leader with a positive attitude who encourages open communication and values the input of team members. This leader is likely to build a strong, cohesive team. On the contrary, a leader with a negative attitude may discourage collaboration, leading to a toxic work environment.

Attitude Is the Only Difference Between Success and Failure:

Maxwell asserts that attitude is the distinguishing factor between success and failure. Success often hinges on perseverance, resilience, and the ability to learn from failures—qualities deeply influenced by attitude.

Example: Think of two individuals with similar skill sets attempting to start their own businesses. The one with a positive, never-give-up attitude is more likely to navigate challenges, learn from failures, and eventually achieve success, while the other may succumb to setbacks.

Attitude at the Beginning of a Task Affects the Outcome More Than Anything Else:

The way we approach a task sets the tone for its outcome. A positive attitude at the outset can enhance creativity, problem-solving, and overall performance.

Example: Consider two students approaching a challenging assignment. The one with a positive attitude sees it as an opportunity to learn and showcase their capabilities, leading to a more successful and fulfilling outcome.

Attitude Can Turn Our Problems into Blessings:

A positive attitude enables us to reframe challenges as opportunities for growth. Instead of seeing problems as roadblocks, we can view them as stepping stones to success.

Example: Think of someone facing unexpected career changes. With a positive attitude, they might see it as a chance to explore new opportunities, acquire new skills, and ultimately enhance their career trajectory.

Attitude Gives Us an Uncommonly Positive Perspective:

Finally, maintaining a positive perspective, even in the face of adversity, can be a game-changer. It allows us to see possibilities, solutions, and silver linings that may elude those with a negative mindset.

Example: Imagine two colleagues facing a corporate restructuring. The one with a positive attitude may view it as a chance for personal and professional growth, while the other might only see it as a threat to job security.

In the pursuit of real success, cultivating a positive attitude is not just beneficial—it's transformative. John C. Maxwell's insights remind us that our attitude is within our control, influencing every aspect of our lives. By making a conscious choice to adopt a positive attitude, we can navigate challenges, build meaningful relationships, and ultimately unlock the door to true success, both professionally and personally.

Authors note: For those of you that want to find out more not only about how attitude is beneficial to one’s success but learn more from all the teachings of John C. Maxwell’s materials, there are a couple of ways that you can do that with me.

For Organizations and Companies, change starts with awareness and to increase your organizations or companies awareness, growth needs to be intentional. To stay in a growth environment, I offer a variety of programs and opportunities. One of those opportunities is a mastermind program for organizations and companies where I come and facilitate a meeting once a week, for 5 to 12 weeks, based around a John C. Maxwell resource of your choice.

For Executives or Individuals that want to dig a bit deeper and are interested in working one on one with me and want a faster track to success, I have a coaching program that can help you achieve results quickly, because it’s much more intensive.

Be sure to check out my website for all my services: John Gottschalk Certified Coach, Teacher, Trainer, and Speaker