A popular subject, I know. But, please, endulge me a little and consider my own personal story on the power of the positive.
Almost 3 months ago, I was diagnosed with a life threatening disease. I could have let the news take me down and render me useless to myself, my family, my friends and colleagues or anyone around me. But I didn’t!
Following the initial shock and awe of receiving the diagnosis, I went in to full blown project management mode. In my mind, this became not a nasty, tasteless, physical disease but just another problem to solve, a project to manage to successful completion. And I did just that, riding on a wave of faith, humor and confidence that I would succeed.
Being the extravert that I am, following the diagnosis, I immediately decided that I wanted everyone I knew to understand what was going on with me – a bit of advocacy mixed with a selfish need to be lifted up by a swell of prayer. I sent an email to approximately 100 of my closest family, friends and colleagues announcing that faith and humor would be my initial treatment plan, asking for them to comply with prayers and humor. They delivered on both fronts. I laughed my way through the whole nasty ordeal never doubting that I would be ok. I am happy to say I am now a cancer survivor.
To say that I did not have moments of despair, especially in the initial aftermath of surgery, would be a lie. I am, after all, human. However, those moments did not dominate my psych. The positives did! I firmly believe that the positive attitude I possessed and employed during this life changing event was a big factor in the successful results I achieved.
Do you struggle with a positive attitude? Letting bad news or situations stew and sour your mind or your heart? How does that affect your actions or your vision for your future? What was your attitude in the time leading up to your last success or failure?
Your attitude is the only thing within your control. Consider this quote by Henry Ford, “Whether you think you can, or think your can’t, you’re right.”
I considered myself a fairly optimistic person before. Now? I’m pretty sure I could conquer the world!