No one is born with a particular attitude. Attitudes are formed and develop in many different ways, for example having direct experience, good or bad, with people and events, and the influences in our lives such as parents, with whom many people hold
similar beliefs.

 
The word attitude is derived from the Latin aptitudo, meaning fitness, and in this context an attitude is an indication as to whether an individual is fit to engage in some act or task.

 

What this test is designed to assess is a part of what is sometimes described as social attitude, in other words the behaviour that not only affects a person’s own life, but that of others they come into contact with, and their attitude to life and the world in general.

What Is Attitude?

Attitude is the underlying way we think, feel and act -- how we react to the world around us. It determines the quality and effectiveness of all of our thinking, emotions and behavior ... and, thereby, the positive or negative consequences of that behavior.

Attitude is the one thing we can count on as a lifetime companion. Jobs and relationships come and go, but your attitude is always with you. You can't take a vacation from yourself!

Attitude is based upon our expectations and perceptions -- our definition of reality.

3 Types of People -- 3 Different Attitudes

Each of the following has the same job, but notice their attitudes:

Susan Spectator likes the predictability and limited responsibility of her job. She feels most comfortable when others make the important decisions.

She feels threatened when anything out of the norm happens and calls her manager for instructions. She never feels certain about anything and has difficulty making commitments.

Carl Critic feels frustrated in his job, but at least it gives him a chance to complain and to vent his frustrations on all the "idiots" he deals with. When confronted with his mistakes, he looks for excuses and others to blame. He hates what he regards as impositions placed on him by coworkers and customers. His negative opinions are known by all.

Paula Player views her job as an opportunity to experience the thrill of competence and meeting progressive challenges.

She enjoys interacting with her coworkers, customers and management. When she makes a mistake, she acknowledges it to herself and to those impacted by it ... and then looks to see how she can correct it and learn from it.

Susan Spectator, Carl Critic and Paula Player exemplify three very different ways of approaching life and relating to others -- three different attitudes:

Spectators with Neutral Attitudes
Spectators watch life happen and observe others. They play it safe and try to avoid risks. Spectators are afraid of change. They often are tired or detached. Their defining word is: Maybe. Their prevailing action: Coast... Typical phrases: I doubt it, I might, I don't know and I'm hesitant.
Critics with Negative Attitudes
Critics comment on life and complain. They critique after the fact, imposing their "expertise" and finding fault in others. Critics are annoyed about change. They often appear frustrated or pessimistic. Their defining word is: No! Their prevailing action: Stop! Typical phrases: I can't, I won't, No way and You made me.
Players with Positive Attitudes
Players actively participate in life and embrace opportunities. They take risks and are willing to make mistakes. Players enjoy learning and change. They usually are confident and optimistic. Their defining word is: Yes! Their prevailing action: Go! Typical phrases: I can, I will, I'm sure and I choose to.