“Adopting the right attitude can convert a negative stress into a positive one.”–Hans Seyle
Attitude is all about choice. We all face stress in our lives. In fact, anything that disrupts the normal (physiologically, this is “homeostasis”) is a stressor. Whether stress be positive (eustress) or negative (distress) is often a matter of perception. I see three possible responses to circumstances (i.e., stress). One can see stress as a burden—a destructive force. One can see stress as a challenge—something that can be overcome, but nonetheless wearing on the body. Or one can see stress as an opportunity—a potential stimulus for growth.
Having a grateful attitude (gratitude or grattitude) is a simple matter of flipping the switch on our response to our circumstances. It is a matter of seeing the opportunity—the good in what is happening. It is seeing the purpose in everything. It is moving “from have to get” (Andy Lausier).
There is a fine line between negative stress and positive stress—a “burden” and an “opportunity”. It is our attitude that moves us. Choose to be positive, one will positive. Choose to be negative, one will remain negative.
It is a blessing to have a choice. Stress can destroy or it can be the stimulus for growth. Carpe momento!