It is extremely important to remember that our attitude is not dependent upon our circumstances. There will always be struggle, disappointment, frustration. However, when we allow our circumstances to get the best of us, it becomes a difficult pattern to remove ourselves from. Anger and frustration if we allow it can make us irritable, then pouty, then whiny, then a whole host of other potential negative displays that quite frankly no one wants to be around. Even placing your physical body in a posture of negativity effects your emotional state. We all appreciate being around others who are positive, encouraging, and cheerful. We gravitate towards others who are determined, focused and motivated. The opposite is also true. Being around negative people tends to bring us down. But in these moments it is crucial that we lead by example. Be the change you want to see in others. Positive attitude is contagious. So what if your circumstances are less than desirable? If you’re reading this it means you’re not dead yet. Which means you can effect positive change. Most attractive is the person who, even faced with hard circumstances, can muster a smile and takes that simple action into positive movement and makes something out of seemingly nothing. It is this, more than anything else, that enables change in our environment. In the end you don’t really have control of most of what happens to you. However, you do have all the power to effect who you want to be. Who do you really want to be? What kind of person do you want to be? Who you are is a choice that has no dependence on your circumstances. Be that person despite your circumstances. Anything less than that is just an excuse. Time to rise above. Do the right thing. A new direction can start with a simple smile.