by Debi Talbert
Now that I’ve accumulated enough seniority as a Flight Attendant, my Second Act Career, I have Sundays off. This day off gives me time to work on my Third Act Career as a Life and Wellness Coach helping people to drink less. In this article I want to talk about how to cultivate a positive mindset – and why.
Sunday Morning Inspiration
My husband and I love to watch the show “Sunday Morning”. A recent guest, the creator of Bob’s Red Mill Natural Foods shared his story which began after reading a book about a man who bought and rebuilt an abandoned mill. Without any mill experience whatsoever, Bob, in mid-life, decided to find an old mill to restore. Thus, Bob’s Red Mill Natural Foods was born in 1978. Today Bob is in his 90s and still works every day in his mill.
What Stops Us from Following Our dreams?
Sometimes we, including myself, tend to hold back from living our best life. We focus on our limitations, often because of thoughts and beliefs we subconsciously hold in the back of our minds. We tell ourselves we are too old, technology is difficult, we don’t have time, etc. When we think this way, we stop ourselves us from even trying. Are these thoughts and beliefs true? I think not. Regardless of age or experience, we can learn new skills. The key is to change our negative mindset to one which makes us aware that growth and transformation are possible in our fifties and beyond.
Ways to Cultivate a “Positive Mindset (Also Known as a “Can Do” Mindset)
It’s important to shift your focus from your limitations to your potential. Instead of thinking, “I’ll never be able to do that,” change your mindset to consider the possibilities. Become curious about your current way of thinking to get a clear picture of how it impacts your life.
- Write down your negative thoughts to get them out of your head and explore them further.
- Ask yourself how you feel when you think this way.
- Determine if the limitations you wrote down are actually true.
- Envision the result if the opposite were true.
- Decide if you want to continue to believe these limitations or challenge them.
- Identify your strengths; write them down.
- Ask a trusted friend what they believe are your positive qualities; sometimes others can see things in ourselves that we do not.
- Take on new challenges: set weekly goals.
- Evaluate your weekly changes and celebrate successes.
- Do not compare yourself to others; compete only with yourself; monitor improvements and changes.
- Find people who inspire you – in person or online – let their success motivate you to move forward.
- Embrace failure. Consider it research for future success.
The Bottom Line
Most of us find it easier to identify our weaknesses than our strengths. However, each and every one of us possesses talents, skills, and positive personality traits. Get in touch with yours to help cultivate a positive mindset. Know failure is part of the process; learn from it to promote future success. Confidence and growth result from accomplishments. Seek out individuals who began new careers later in life such as Bob from Bob Mills Natural Foods. Pay attention to the ways in which your thought process begins to change and to the experiences you become open to having. Enjoy the process as you cultivate your “can-do” mindset.
FAQs
Below are some commonly asked questions about cultivating a can-do attitude.
What is a “can-do” attitude?
A “can-do” attitude is a mindset characterized by a positive and proactive approach to challenges, tasks, and goals. It involves believing your ability to overcome obstacles and achieve success, even in difficult situations.
Why is having a “can-do” attitude important?
Having a “can-do” attitude is important because it empowers you to persist in the face of adversity, fosters resilience, enhances problem-solving skills, and promotes a more optimistic outlook on life. It can also lead to greater personal and professional success.
What are some strategies for maintaining a “can-do” attitude during difficult times?
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Focus on what you can control and take proactive steps to address challenges.
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Break tasks down into smaller, more manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
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Seek support from friends, family, or mentors who can provide encouragement and perspective.
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Practice self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies to reduce stress and maintain a positive mindset.
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Reframe negative thoughts into more positive and empowering ones.
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Remember past successes and draw strength from them during tough times.
Can a “can-do” attitude be learned, or is it innate?
While some individuals may naturally possess a more optimistic and resilient mindset, a “can-do” attitude can definitely be learned and cultivated over time through conscious effort and practice. It involves adopting specific behaviors, thought patterns, and habits that promote a positive and proactive approach to life’s challenges.
How can I inspire others to develop a more resilient attitude?
Lead by example by demonstrating a positive and proactive attitude in your own actions and interactions. Encourage others to set ambitious yet realistic goals, provide support and encouragement, and celebrate their successes along the way. Share stories of perseverance and resilience to inspire others to adopt a similar mindset. Additionally, create a supportive and empowering environment where individuals feel valued, capable, and motivated to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
About the Author: Debi Talbert
Debi Talbert is a Certified Life Coach with The Life Coach School and This Naked Mind Institute. She coaches the 50 plus individual who is exhausted trying to figure out how to end their dysfunctional relationship with alcohol. She helps people who struggle to stop drinking, but do not accept the labels of “alcoholic” or “powerless”.
Debi knows at a deeply personal level that Life Coaching is transformative. She helps clients rebuild their trust in themselves and change their beliefs about life. She is the creator of Exit the Drinking Life podcast and offers online programs which include training videos and weekly live coaching sessions. In addition, she offers a monthly membership to teach you to coach yourself, teach you how to feel better, teach you to take massive action and flourish in life beyond alcohol. Find information about programs and resources at rethinkingalcohol.com.
Leslie Farin is the Publisher and Founder of 50PlusToday. She is an experienced communications and marketing professional passionate about working with older adults and their families. She works with a team of writers to provide essential and cutting-edge information related to the 50Plus community.
