Sunday, August 7, 2022 | 12:45 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.
Lora Ueland, Executive Director, Valley Com 911, Kent, WA 

Attitude refers to an individual’s mental state, which is based on their beliefs or value system, emotions and the tendency to act in a certain way. This is often reflected in a person’s behavior and is observable in a sigh, rolling of eyes, leaning in on a conversation, a welcoming smile. Attitude is also demonstrated by what we say – verbally and silently – to others and to ourselves.

Our self-talk tends to be critical, harsh, and pessimistic. A research study found that three-quarters of us are significantly nicer to others than we are to ourselves. We talk to ourselves in a way we would never say to another person. Intentionally working to change our self-talk can make a big difference in one’s quality of life at home and at work. This is a choice anyone can and should make but we often don’t stop to realize the choice is ours.

I have gone from living with fear and self-doubt to enjoying growth and new opportunities. I am choosing to punch fear in the face and say “yes” more often, which has led to exciting paths and experiences. This is a much more fun and invigorating way to live than when I defaulted thinking “no, I can’t possibly do that …” If living with fear and self-doubt sounds familiar, I invite you to make a different choice too.