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The Difference Maker Essay

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The Difference Maker Essay
The Difference Maker is a self-help book that teaches you how to make your attitude an asset. John C. Maxwell, the book's author, uses a realistic approach in that he makes no claim that one's attitude is all powerful. Instead, Maxwell explains what attitude cannot do for you right from the start to curb unrealistic expectations. Attitude cannot replace competence nor can it change the facts. A positive attitude will not substitute for personal growth nor will it stay good automatically. Maxwell also talks about what attitude can do for you. Ironically, all the things that cannot be changed by your attitude are still aided by it. Competence makes a good example. A good attitude helps the learning process. Individuals with positive …show more content…
Maxwell revives and refreshes the age-old idea that attitude is a choice. Unfortunately, I had forgotten. There were many times when I felt it easier to give into the situation and let it control me. Eventually, I stopped feeling as though it were a choice. It felt and still feels innate. I imagine, through no deep contemplation on my part, that I allowed this to be my reality because it seemed easier in the short term.
Maxwell and I agree that a having a positive attitude takes work; it's high-maintenance. It is not an easy task to undertake. Once again, I imagine this is a large part of why I allowed my attitude to become an entity unto itself. The Difference Maker reminds me of the effort I must put in and highlights some of the steps I can use to take to back control. I must do the work if I want to be in control.
I will work to be consistent in controlling my attitude when I become a teacher. I am sure my attitude will be crucial in determining if I continue to teach. More importantly, however, I feel that I need to keep a good attitude so that I model healthy behavior for my students. I will also like to address having a positive attitude on the first day of each class. Throughout the year I hope to model this mindset indirectly both to my class and to each student individually as needed. Maxwell suggests wonderful ways of doing this in his book. A good example is finding the right perspective. I can offer

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