Check the Attitude

I always enjoy observing people and how they act and interact. So this week’s thought is slightly different, in that it is aimed at team dynamics rather than personal goals or development. I still believe there is something to be taken to heart for everyday casual interactions as well.

Some people are bold and confident while others are more reserved, quiet and hold back to test the waters before venturing into focus. These characteristics also change depending on the environment and the people they are with. You may say, "That is obvious," and you would be absolutely correct. My thought is whether we can control or choose the attitude we adopt in various circumstances or whether it is something instinctual that is "built-in" based on our life journey experiences and exposures.

I believe it is yes to both sides of those questions.

Our attitude does adapt to our current mood, our environment, the comfort or discomfort we feel with the people surrounding us, our physical health and even our financial health. Put yourself in the same situation with different emotional circumstances or people you are friends with as opposed to a group of directors and your attitude will likely take on  a different flavour.

If we left our attitude on full 'auto-pilot' we may find ourselves in tricky situations more often than not. Auto-pilot attitude has little, to no diplomacy and places your needs as primary priority. So, if allowed to operate without checks, could offend and will definitely exasperate those around you.

There are those who allow their attitudes to brazenly push through unchecked or without, seemingly, a care of the impact it makes. I'm sure we all know those individuals who take centre stage, know everything, talk over others as if only their ideas or concepts are worthy of being heard. No consideration is given for 'the small guy' who may possibly, just possibly, have something of worth to offer, an original gem. That environment of the bullish superstars may be enough of a deterrent for the individual to just bury that gem deep down, feeling inadequate in the blinding self-generated light of the stars of the show. What a loss! (To everyone.)

My thought for this week then, is to monitor the attitude in yourself and in others. Be ever mindful of your actions and the impact they have on others. If you find yourself treating others as if they were less important or of little consequence; check it, take auto-pilot off and adjust your flight controls. If you notice that there are people being subdued, step in and give them their opportunity to bring their contribution to the table. It may just be a gem!

No-one is more or less important than the next and their contribution should be considered equally important.

People are different and personalities are equally varied. That is what makes interactions interesting. It is your decision to adopt the right attitude to get the most value or enjoyable experience out of each interaction. Check your attitude...