Attitude Starts in the Heart

From Janine

People may listen and hear your words, but it’s your attitude that they’ll remember. It’s your attitude that they’ll feel. Be sure you’re living with an attitude that makes the right impact. - John C. Maxwell

People may hear your words, but it’s your attitude they’ll remember. It’s your attitude they’ll feel. That quote from John Maxwell hits home for me—because it’s true. We often focus on what we say or what we do, but forget that the way we carry ourselves speaks louder than anything else.

Our attitudes are always telling a story. And they usually reflect what’s really going on in our hearts. I’ve learned over the years—both through my own journey and walking alongside others—that attitude can change a room. You know the feeling. You’re around someone who’s constantly negative, and before long you’re grumpy too. But spend time with someone joyful and hopeful, and suddenly things feel lighter.

That’s why who we surround ourselves with matters. It’s not just about avoiding hard conversations or pretending everything’s fine—it’s about choosing voices that build, not tear down.

Charles Swindoll once said, “I am convinced life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it.”

If that’s true—and I believe it is—then how we handle the tough stuff really matters. We can’t always control how we feel. But we can control how we respond. Even when we’re tired, upset, or frustrated, we still have the power to treat others with kindness and respect.

I’m the first to admit—I don’t always get it right. I can be a bit impatient (especially in cafés or checkout lines!). But I’ve noticed something: When I stop, smile, and ask someone how they’re going instead of sighing or rushing, everything changes. Not just for them—but for me too.

Attitudes are an outward display of what’s taking place in our hearts. And when our hearts are focused on what’s good, true, and hopeful—our attitudes follow.

So each day, I try to ask myself:
What kind of atmosphere am I creating?
What’s my attitude saying to the people around me?

The most powerful decision we make each day isn’t our to-do list—it’s our attitude.

Because when that’s right? No challenge feels too big. And no dream feels too far away.