We have often heard the phrase “it is a matter of attitude.” But, do we truly know what it means? Let’s start by defining what attitude is.
It is the effect a set of beliefs and values that are relatively stable over time have on the disposition or tendency to act in a certain way. It is a determining factor when it comes to taking an action and the type of emotion the activity generates, or the way of interacting when facing a situation or stimulus.
Development of attitude
An individual’s attitude is developed and depends on their environment. It can also depend on inherited or biological patterns, and the negative or positive reinforcement the person receives when facing certain stimuli.
Thus, the approach we take to situations will depend on the experiences we have lived and the internal and external factors that lead us to perceive that situation in a certain way. Therefore, how we act in a situation will depend on the attitude we decide to have when facing it.
The results and perspectives we get are a reflection of the actions we take that are motivated by the attitudes we manifest amid adversity or “good fortune.”
Sometimes the way we see life and how we face it makes the difference between happiness or sadness, between satisfaction or frustration. Sometimes, what happens to us or, at least, the way we perceive it, is a matter of attitude.
Perception and attitude
Many people have adopted a very pessimistic perception throughout their lives. And they do not find a way to overcome events that affect them. In this way, they avoid taking responsibility when facing life.
These people, generally, put all the responsibility regarding their “disgrace” outside their orbit of action. This is called an external locus of control. It is always the other person who is responsible for any negative situation in his/her life. Phrases like “you are the one to blame for all my problems” are common among these people.
The other group is the one who sees life with more optimism. They know the circumstances life brings them are challenges for them to grow. Therefore, they live with less stress. They tend to appear happier and smile more. They are the ones who know that life is not threatening itself, but what makes it “good” or “bad” is a matter of attitude.
For that reason, they have the freedom to choose how to face it. That is where the phrase “it is all about attitude” applies. We decide how to face events and situations. The results will depend on the approach we have and the attitude we take.
Joseph attitude
Very little is said about Joseph. Every sermon that is preached around this December holiday season is about Mary, the baby Jesus, the wise men, and the shepherds. But Joseph’s attitude in this whole plot of Jesus’ birth is interesting.
He was getting ready for his wedding with his fiancée Mary, coordinating the guests, the pastor who would marry them, and the place of the reception. Joseph was very busy when he saw Mary coming to him, crying, without knowing what to say.
After he asked her to tell him what was going on, she answered him: “I am pregnant, I am going to have a baby.” The first thing that came to Joseph’s mind was, “That baby is not mine, whose is it?”
How would you react to news like that? Maybe you would have cursed Mary, or regretted the day you met her. But Joseph did not. He had a different attitude. He was a just man, a man of integrity, and faithful to God. Likewise, he did not judge or draw his conclusions on the matter. But he simply decided to protect Mary because he loved her. And the best thing he could do was to separate from her without anyone noticing it.
And when he was ready to carry out his plan, the angel of the Lord approached him and explained everything that was happening with Mary. There, Joseph understood the purpose God had for him, for his life. The attitude he decided to take in the face of this situation made the difference. Yes, the difference between fleeing and having an important role in the history of the world, raising the Savior, who came to live in his very own home.
Your attitude when facing challenges
What is your attitude when facing challenges in your life? Do you have faith like Joseph? He did not doubt the angel of Jehovah’s message and had an important role in the history of the world. Are there any situations in your life that could have been different if you’d had a different attitude when facing them?
Do you think the attitude you have when facing situations influences how they turn out? Share your opinion and your experiences with us in the comments section and tell us your point of view. God bless you.
