READ: Attitude-inize by Jan Coates
“You need a better attitude.” “Attitude is everything.” “Change that attitude!”
How often have you heard (or made) comments like these? But how often has someone given you achievable, affirming tips that help you put such a transformation into effect?
I bet I know the answer. But it can change along with your attitude as you read the latest offering by Jan Coates, motivational speaker and author: Attitude-inize: 10 Secrets to a Positive You (Beacon Hill Press, 2011). Jan writes not from the lofty platform of a perfect life but from the transformed perspective of a broken one.
Name the mistake—Jan made it. Name the heartbreak—she experienced it. But instead of dwelling on the family dysfunction that fostered her wrong choices, Jan chooses to remember the works of the Lord. Instead of focusing on her son’s death at the hands of a drunk driver, she works to help others live beyond their pain. The result is a transparent, helpful volume that offers readers hope, healing, and help.
Each chapter of Attitude-inize presents one simply-stated secret to a new attitude. Examples include “Forgive yourself and others,” “Prepare for obstacles,” and “Transform from the inside out.” These biblical, practical tips will help you move toward a fresh perspective or work on an area of special concern. Features such as real-life stories, apply-as-you-go activities, and questions help you take your learning to the next level. And a bonus eleventh chapter holds an Attitude Toolkit with interactive features that give practical handles for applying what you learn.
The next time I’m tempted to tell someone to change an attitude, I’ll remember the impact my own can have on others. I’ll also remember this book and its encouraging, step-by-step approach.
At what point in your life did you begin to understand the importance of attitude? Did a difficult situation or circumstance lead to your growth? I’d love to hear your comments or your own tips toward attitude adjustment. Leave one here (include a link to an e-mail address so I can contact the winner) as your entry in a drawing to win my review copy of Jan’s book. Have trouble leaving a comment? E-mail me instead using the “contact” button to the right.
At what point in your life did you begin to understand the importance of attitude? Did a difficult situation or circumstance lead to your growth? I’d love to hear your comments or your own tips toward attitude adjustment. Leave one here (include a link to an e-mail address so I can contact the winner) as your entry in a drawing to win my review copy of Jan’s book. Have trouble leaving a comment? E-mail me instead using the “contact” button to the right.
This book sounds great! It’s a long story, but suffice it to say that my experience with my first son (fraught with preconceived notions and my own great expectations) forced me to my knees and made me look in the mirror. What I saw was an attitude, a perspective that needed to change — to let go, to look up.
And write a book about it, perhaps? 😉 Thanks for sharing, Laura. You’re entered!
Hmm. You can blame deadlines and Vacation Bible School on my lack of posting but Laura, you are the winner of my review copy of Attitude-inize. Email me your address and I’ll send it your way soon!