Attitude Defines Altitude – 5: Attitude to Contribute
An Attitude is a value that a person assigns to something or someone. Attitudes are mental positions, and usually attitudes lead to specific behaviors. In my earlier posts on Attitude, I have discussed the Attitude of Trust, Courage, Belief and Gratitude. Attitude of Gratitude is the key for becoming a good individual, gratitude towards society, environment, family, organization, colleagues and subordinates. Attitude of contribution is the manifestation of attitude of gratitude. One must always contribute positively to his natural and organizational environment. Asking yourself constantly how are you contributing towards betterment of the society, organization and people who are around you and are responsible for your growth could be perfect way to stay on course on the path of being grateful, responsible and contributing. Contribution towards natural environment: Human beings are part of the natural ecosystem; they are the users and consumers of nature’s bounty. Everything was in sync till they gradually transformed themselves from being user and consumer to exploiter to spoiler of the environment and further devolved to become destroyer of the environment. India has ages old tradition of respecting, honoring and worshiping all the natural resources on which human life is dependent, be it water, river, forest. Even other ancient civilizations like Mayan and tribes and communities in Africa lived in perfect harmony with the nature, they took only that much which was needed for their survival. Desisting from destroying resources is also a contribution. This tradition and belief ensured that we do not recklessly exploit the natural resources, but utilize only as much as is required for the survival and well-being of humankind. This symbiotic association philosophy ensured that we contributed towards maintenance of our resources as well, thus ensuring the sustenance of the same for posterity. Contributing to your place of work: Your place of work provides for your livelihood, it also gives you opportunity to use and sharpen your professional skill giving you professional satisfaction. You should always look for opportunity to add value to your place of work. The attitude to contribute through value addition will change your approach to work and workplace; you will be more observant and understanding towards the processes and transactions in your area of operations. You will look for opportunities to improve upon, and you will confer more with your co-workers and colleagues. This contributory approach would develop you into a positive, supportive, helping and encouraging individual. This will transform you into a solution provider. You will be considered by your friends and colleagues as person who is always sought after for help and suggestion. This approach will help you attain 360 degree leadership. All these newly acquired competencies and abilities will make you more confident, contented and successful. Contributing to the society: If you find yourself to be privileged and have good things in your life, such as good job, good position, good salary, good education; then it is your duty to share some of it with other less privileged section of the society. You should contribute with the knowledge, skill, competency, time, money and other resources. The attitude of contribution recycles resources for generations. This attitude has the power to enrich the society with good values, growth and well-being for all.