No matter what challenges you're facing, you can maintain a positive mindset by changing your perspective. Looking inward often leads to depression, while looking around you can cause you to become overly critical, complaining, and condemning of others. Looking back brings regrets, and looking anxiously forward can leave you feeling overwhelmed. But, when you choose to look upward to God as your Source allows you to become joyful and excited!

It's like the difference between taking in the awesome views of Paris from the Eiffel Tower at night versus being stuck in a dark alley surrounded by scurrying rats and overflowing trashcans. What you choose to focus on really does determine how you feel, so consciously train yourself to see from God's empowering perspective, rather than your limiting realities.

Getting into God's presence is also vital for nurturing the right attitude. Nothing lifts your spirit like reading God's Word and dwelling on His promises. Talking with Him in prayer energizes you.

Daily enter His Presence with an attitude of thanksgiving, and not merely coming with a list of never-ending requests. Thank and praise Him more than you ask for things. In fact, ask and thank Him as if your requests have already been granted!

Remember, Ephesians 4:23 instructs us to let the Spirit renew our thoughts and attitudes. We all need God's help in this area.

Finally, aim to become truly enthusiastic about life itself. The word "enthusiastic" comes from the Greek "en theos" meaning "God within."

Act like God genuinely lives in you! In every situation you face, approach it by focusing on the potential, not just the problem at hand. As Chuck Swindoll insightfully said:

"I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it. And so it is with you... we are in charge of our attitudes."

Why be enthusiastic? Because by choosing the right, positive attitude, you attract God's favor, gain access to new positions, promotions, and bonuses.

You change the world around you for the better, and fulfill your God-given potential while receiving His reward.