Attitudinal Adjustment

We have all listened to people who appear to almost enjoy telling us about "problems," and "if" they could do this or that, or that something is "impossible.," or that they'll "try." Unfortunately, these non- productive, types of negative words generally generate negative thinking, and dramatically hinder anyone's ability to achieve to one's potential.

When one thinks about anything as a "problem," it is an unpleasant thought, bringing forth visions of misery, failure, disappointment, disillusionment, etc. It generates anxiety and stress, and is generally counter-productive in terms of enthusiasm, spirit, etc. However, if instead of thinking about a "problem," one thinks about a "challenge," and eliminates the word "problem" from one's vocabulary, replacing it with words like "challenge," "obstacle," etc., there is a much more positive approach capable of utilization. When one thinks of a "challenge," one thinks about a productive, do-able exercise, rather than an impossibility. Once one stops visualizing failure, the chances of success and true achievements are dramatically enhanced. Often, when I have given motivational and/ or sales training seminars, I begin by having participants, in large block letters, write on a piece of paper, "P-R-O-B-L-E-M," and then have them tear that paper into "a million pieces." I then have them think about the images conjured up by a problem versus those when one thinks of a challenge. While a challenge can be fun, and achievement and success can be visualized, that is not the case when one thinks of a problem! I then "forbid" the use of the word "problem," in my presence!

Think about someone who tells you that "they'll try" to do something. Rarely is anything productively done by that individual. Instead, surround yourself with people who will rather than with those that "try."

Remember that nothing that anyone else can achieve is "impossible." Something may require effort, "thinking outside the box," "challenging" oneself to do better and more, using a different approach, etc., but it is not impossible. Eliminate these types of negative words and this type of "stinkin' thinkin'." I welcome you to read my Associated Content article on stinkin' thinkin.'

Those that are the most productive and generally the most successful, and get results, have, for the most part, eliminated negative words and ideas and thoughts from their mindset. I challenge you to stop using those negative words, and after a few weeks evaluate the difference in your performance, attitude, and actions, objectively. Remember that most people would rather be around someone who is positive than someone negative, because negative people bring you down. Make these small changes, and challenge yourself to be all that you might be. Those that do will see improvement while those that remain negative, will never achieve to their potential!