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“The promise that attitude is everything is hollow.”

A thought by John C. Maxwell, from his book, The Difference Maker (p. 2). HarperCollins Leadership. Kindle Edition. (Click on the book title to go to Amazon.com to buy the book.)

That is good to know, isn't it?

John says, “In fact, if you believe that attitude is everything, it may actually hurt you more than help you. If attitude were everything, then the only thing that would separate me from a successful singing career would be the belief that I can do it. But trust me, there is another factor that stands in my way: talent. If you’ve watched the reality show American Idol, then you know what I mean. I am amazed at the number of terrible auditioners who respond to blunt criticism from the judges by saying things like, ‘I know I can sing. That’s just your opinion.’ Truthfully, no attitude is strong enough to compensate for lack of skill.

“So does a good attitude make any difference? Absolutely. Attitude is the difference maker! Attitude isn’t everything, but it is one thing that can make a difference in your life. Businessman, philanthropist, and author W. Clement Stone stated, ‘There is little difference in people, but the little difference makes a big difference. The little difference is attitude. The big difference is whether it is positive or negative.’”

John then says, “What is an attitude, anyway? When you hear the word, what do you think about? I think of attitude as an inward feeling expressed by outward behavior. People always project on the outside what they feel on the inside. Some people try to mask their attitude, and they can fool others for a while. But that cover-up doesn’t last long. Attitude always wiggles its way out.”

He continues, “Your attitude colors every aspect of your life. It is like the mind’s paintbrush. It can paint everything in bright, vibrant colors—creating a masterpiece. Or it can make everything dark and dreary.”

John says, “There is not a single part of your current life that is not affected by your attitude. And your future will definitely be influenced by the attitude you carry with you from today forward.”

It isn’t everything, but it is a very important part of our life.  And this is a good place to start, isn't it?  

Yes, yes!
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