Gratitude and Attitude

In 2014 I decided to have a word for the year. So for 2014 my word was GRATITUDE.  I really wanted to focus on being thankful.  Sometimes we get so focused on what we don't have we forget to be thankful for what we do have.  It is so much more rewarding to have a thankful spirit. Your days are so much happier and rewarding.  Now that's not to say I flew through 2014 on a cloud of happiness and gratitude. I had my periods of frustration and setbacks. What I liked was that I was more aware - I knew when it was happening and really focused on bringing myself out of whatever slump I was in at the moment.

 I think I did pretty good for 2014 with my word of the year. To this day I still carry my 'gratitude' journal.  My goal is to daily (sometimes I get busy and forget) write down 5 things I am thankful/grateful for.  I am so thankful for all the amazing blessings the Lord has given me.  I know what I have is not because of anything I did - it is all Him.  

 I encourage you when you find yourself complaining about things like: "my house is too small, my car is old, my spouse is driving me crazy" remember - - - there are people who would love to have your home, your car, or even your spouse ;-)

I starting thinking about what my word for 2015 would be in December of 2014. My word for 2015 is ATTITUDE.  No, I did not intentionally make 2014 and 2015 words rhyme - ha.  After much soul-searching and desire to be a better person it quickly became evident Attitude should be my word for 2015.

 At work I was really struggling and allowing myself to get into these obnoxious moods and not being very supportive. I was allowing what others were doing or not doing,  to affect me. What I should have been doing was rising above the situation, not allowing my emotions to get the best of me, setting a better example for my team .

 If I am being totally honest, I was downright critical, judgmental, and obnoxious.  Who died and left me ruler of the people.  Ummmm, I'm pretty sure NO ONE did.  Instead of setting a good example, casting a positive  shadow I was doing the exact opposite.  It was a slow start getting myself to 'think' before I spoke.  To assume positive intent when others said something I found offensive or manipulative.

I think the key is becoming aware. I am much more aware of my actions, motives, and responses.  The last couple of months I believe have been my best so far. Now, lets see how I do the second half of the year. I challenge you to find a 'word' for the year that you can focus on. Share your word with me in the comments below.