What is a positive attitude?

It is no coincidence that America is considered the “I CAN” country, a large part of that is due to the positive attitude that is constantly reinforced and rewarded.

A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to sure make it worth it.

Whether you think you can, or think you can’t, you’re absolutely right. The only time you fail is the last time you try.

Success DaVinci Style

Just like baby ducks learn to survive by following and imitating their mothers, Leonardo DaVinci believed that a key component to being successful is to imitate or model successful people. We humans, unlike any other species, can choose whom to imitate or learn from. DaVinci felt that throughout our lives and all of its stages we should learn to consciously choose models and to replace the ones we outgrow. By doing this you will begin a positive adventure toward your worthy goal. Rather than encompassing all the characteristics of those we model, try to integrate the very best of them into a version of who and what you would like to be.

Michael Gelb who wrote the book “How to Think like Leonardo DaVinci” writes, “It would take an encyclopedia to begin to do justice to the full scope of Leonardo’s accomplishments.” I agree! DaVinci had visions. What set him apart is that he acted (took massive action) on his ideas. His ideas and creations covered art, invention, the military, engineering, and science. What’s most fascinating is the fact that DaVinci had a “system” he invented and followed through religiously every time he began a new idea. It’s a very simple system you can use to help you achieve your goals. DaVinci called it the “Smart System,”

S M A R T being an acronym for:

S – Specific: Define exactly what you want.

M – Measurable: Figure out how you’re going to measure your goals.

A – Accountability: Commit to being personally responsible for achieving your goals. If part of a team, be sure that accountability is clear.

R – Relevant: Set goals that are ambitious. Make certain your goals are relevant to your purpose.

T – Timeline: Set a clear timeline for the achievement of your goals.

I’m sure you know that DaVinci created such timeless creations such as the paintings, “Mona Lisa” and “The Last Supper.” But did you also know that he also created the parachute, bicycle, helicopter, folding chair, alarm clock, and the first comprehensive drawings of the human anatomy?

A positive mental attitude can be manifested in many different ways and is most often revealed in times of crisis but it also shows every day in the way we deal with minor irritations. Most of us can’t articulate exactly what is it but just like the man says I sure know it when I see it.