More often than I would like to admit, I find myself needing a shift in attitude. A more positive, productive, and kind redirection of my thoughts.   Every morning I am purposeful about starting my day with a grateful heart.  However, I find that it doesn’t take much to get me off track, particularly when I am physically or mentally tired. 

I am disappointed with myself when I respond to someone using the same harsh voice tone or actions as they used with me.  Most of the time I am able to recognize the need for a shift in my attitude.  Thank you, God!

Reciprocating someone’s harsh voice tone is a hard habit to break.  If I notice immediately, I quickly apologize for my tone.  Two wrongs don’t make a right.

Sometimes it’s not immediate, as I walk away from the situation I realize that I contributed to the problem and should have shifted my attitude.  It is those times that I wish I had taken a moment, paused, and thought about how I should react to the negative voice tone or action.   

Most often my children are the target of my quick temper.  It seems that it is easiest to be defensive with those who love us unconditionally.  I find myself apologizing often.  Apologies go a long way and are very helpful when our attitudes need adjusting. 

When I am exposed to negative attitudes in public, I do my best to realize that it is just a moment in time.  Often when my attitude is not respectful when responding, it is because I’m tired, I have not given myself the chance to think about how I want to answer, or because I’m not happy with my current situation.  But with prayer and a shift of attitude, it does not take me long to feel grateful for what I have and realize that I need to apologize and move on.

It is my choice as to how I respond to negative attitudes.  I can choose to participate in the negative thoughts and actions or I can choose to not get involved.

I find that I evaluate my attitude often.  When my attitude is not in the right place, my life is not as joyful or productive.  It affects my family, my friends, and all those who I interact with daily.   I ask for help, through prayer, to recognize when my attitude is negative, and for strength to redirect my thoughts and actions.

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