[April 3, 2017] I was at a wedding this past Friday in downtown Brooklyn, New York and had a great time with all the many young adults present. But, it was cold, rainy, windy, I inadvertently drove over into Manhattan (making me late), traffic was horrific, the ceremony started late, and yet everyone there had such a good attitude that it was like all the other stuff never happened.
I’m reminded of those days when we were conducting Command Selection Boards looking for the best candidates to lead U.S. Army units. We had all the data on each Officer; their service record included all the positions they’d held, their performance ratings, service schools completed, combat duty, and so on. But what we weighed most heavily for those we selected was their good attitude.
“Virtually nothing is impossible in this world if you just put your mind to it and maintain a positive attitude.” – Lou Holtz, American football coach
It’s been said before that nothing can stop a person with a positive attitude from reaching their goals and nothing can help someone with a bad attitude. Leaders, to be successful, must have a sense of perpetual optimism; an unwavering good attitude is supported by humility, moral courage, and experienced judgment.
Much has been said about a good attitude and rightly so. It is widely recognized as a key to success and happiness, as well as being closely associated with health, longevity, and good fortune and those with a good attitude attract others with it too. Attitude is seen as a state of mind that transcends all. Conversely, a bad attitude will have the effect of damaging you personally and those who surround you.
My grandmother, smart lady by the way, was quick to say “attitude check” whenever I was down and out emotionally. She always seemed to be smiling or singing something upbeat. I loved it and loved being around her. Her persona was about goodness and that made me happy; although I didn’t know why at the time.
Those wonderful people at the wedding made my day so much brighter. We danced, drank wine and champagne, and talked until well after midnight. And despite getting lost again driving back to my hotel, I felt good about it all. It was the good attitudes that made it so and that’s what great leaders have over others.
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