“A” is for Attitude                                           (Back to Resources)

“You better change your attitude young lady.” This phrase was repeated to many of us as we were growing up. Strangely enough, I’m now repeating it to my daughter. I heard myself blurt it out when she was in the middle of a temper tantrum in the hardware store just the other day. I had to remind myself, she IS only two…she’s supposed to have attitude! Then I got to thinking, what did I mean when I asked her to “change her attitude?”
Attitude is how you feel towards something. Our attitudes are formed based on our life experiences. Our attitude predisposes us to adopt or reject certain behaviours (unless you’re two years old and discovering how long you have to scream before you get what you want in the hardware store!)

You have likely heard the phrase first coined by Zig Ziglar, “Your attitude determines your altitude.” I believe this is true and that your attitude drives your behaviour. The top salespeople I’ve had the pleasure of working with all have an amazing attitude. They are rarely discouraged by setbacks and always figuring out how to turn difficulties into opportunities.

Where does this attitude come from? Many of these top salespeople are influenced by great leaders and mentors. More importantly, I found they were taught these behaviours as a child. When you fall off your bike, try again. When you fail a chemistry exam, study harder next time. Our environment shapes our attitude and in turn, I believe our attitude drives our behaviour.
A positive attitude is tied to self confidence. This is why I believe more than anything; leaders need to foster people’s belief in themselves. I once had a sales manager, who believed strongly in my abilities when I was a relatively junior sales person.

He influenced my sales career tremendously with a little coaching, the right resources and a whole lot of belief that I could do it. I credit much of my success to him and the mentoring and coaching he provided while I was on his team. My attitude about myself changed dramatically while under his management.

Don’t underestimate the power of your attitude. Although these results aren’t tabulated at the shareholders table, I assure you leaders everyday are influencing their staff in similar ways. As a leader in your company, community or family I encourage you to lead the most productive and fulfilling life you can by promoting a great attitude in others.

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Michelle Devlin, B.Comm is a professional speaker, facilitator and consultant who works with corporations and individuals looking to improve their public speaking and communication skills. For tips and information about working with Michelle visit www.seriouslyspeaking.ca or call 780.918.6972.

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