Our attitude sets us apart from others

There's a story which goes along the following lines:

A reporter was sent to a stone cutter to interview three men doing exactly the same thing - hammering stones.

When asked how he liked his job, the first one said: "I really hate it. I hardly make a dollar to get by. I am doing the same stuff over and over, my back is giving me grief, I'm getting older and sorer by the day and I see no sense at all in what I am doing."

The second man responded to the same question saying: "It's okay - I have a pretty good house, a car that gets me around and a loving family. However, my job is not my dream and it is not that inspiring."

The third man replied:"I absolutely love my job. I am thrilled to be here every day and I appreciate the opportunity.

"One day, all these stones I am cutting will form part of an awesome cathedral, which will be built in the town centre. I cannot imagine doing anything else and I feel grateful and happy every moment of the day."

The defining difference between each of these men was their attitude towards the work they did, which made them entirely different people.

Defining Your AttitudeYour attitude shapes your life. If you expect free hand-outs you are setting yourself up for a big disappointment. You will end up being bitter and angry at your world for the hand it has dealt you. Acknowledge what you have and be grateful for it. Look at the wonder of nature around you; revel in a lovely, sunny day or a spectacular sunset. There is so much to delight in and be thankful for. Appreciate the small things that make such a positive difference to your day: your kids' school play, their school cross-country day, your wife or partner preparing your food.

Acknowledge all the routine tasks your wife or partner does to make life comfortable and easier for you. Lend a hand with things like the housework and picking the kids up from school, provide a healthy balance in your relationships whether you are the male or female half to the equation. Make a contribution for the betterment of humanity and live life to the fullest, for it is the only life you get.

TIPS:

-Live by your own standards.

-A positive attitude influences health, happiness and personal satisfaction

-A sense of humour helps you over the bad stuff so laugh at your own shortcomings first.

Rod Bannister is an Australasian Masters squash champion, fitness expert and owner of One Mentoring, providing sales solutions for small to medium sized businesses - onementoring@gmail.com