There’s something remarkable about the power of a positive attitude. It’s not something that grabs headlines or stands out in a crowd, but it quietly shapes the way we approach our work and our careers.

I’ve seen this truth play out in the daily grind of the office, in meetings, and even during those long hours spent solving tough problems. A positive attitude can transform how we experience our work, even in the most challenging times.

A positive attitude isn’t about ignoring the realities of deadlines, difficult projects, or challenging coworkers. We all face those moments when the pressure is on, and it feels like everything is piling up. But choosing to maintain a positive outlook is about focusing on what we can control, rather than getting overwhelmed by what we can’t.

It’s about recognizing the small wins, the progress made, and the opportunities that challenges bring.

Consider the story of Thomas Edison, one of history’s greatest inventors. Edison faced countless setbacks in his pursuit of creating the electric light bulb—thousands of failed experiments, public skepticism, and financial difficulties. Yet, his attitude remained one of relentless optimism and determination. He famously said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.”

Edison’s positive attitude wasn’t about ignoring the difficulties; it was about viewing each failure as a step closer to success. His outlook drove him to persevere where others might have given up, ultimately leading to a breakthrough that changed the world.

I also think of Winston Churchill, whose leadership during World War II exemplified the power of a positive attitude in the face of overwhelming adversity. Churchill’s unwavering resolve and his ability to inspire hope, even during the darkest days of the war, rallied a nation. His famous declaration, “Never, never, never give up,” was more than just words—it was a mindset that empowered the British people to endure and eventually triumph. Churchill’s attitude was contagious, instilling confidence and resilience in those around him.

Never, never, never give up.

But sometimes, the power of a positive attitude is most evident in the personal challenges we face. I experienced this firsthand during my 20 year hike of the Appalachian Trail, a journey that spanned nearly two decades, from 2002 to 2021. One particular day stands out in my memory—16 miles into a planned 20-mile section.

It was getting dark, I was low on water, dog-tired, and still had four miles to go before reaching the next shelter. The temptation to give in to fatigue, to doubt whether I could make it, was overwhelming.

As I trudged on, I neared a cold stream. I knew I needed to pause. I took off my boots, soaked my aching feet in the icy water, and allowed myself a moment to reset. The coolness of the stream was a brief respite, but it was enough to revive my spirits.

After that short break, I laced up my boots, stood up, and felt a renewed sense of determination. The positive attitude I chose to embrace didn’t refill my water bottle or shorten the miles ahead, but it kept me moving forward when quitting felt like the easier choice. And sure enough, step by step, I reached that shelter, tired but triumphant.

In the business world, attitude is everything. It’s the difference between seeing obstacles as insurmountable and viewing them as opportunities for growth. It’s what helps us stay resilient when things don’t go as planned and keeps us focused on finding solutions rather than dwelling on setbacks.

Leaders, especially, understand the impact of a positive attitude. A leader who stays calm under pressure and encourages their team through difficult times sets the tone for everyone else. It’s not about being unrealistic; it’s about fostering a mindset that looks for possibilities, inspires confidence, and drives progress.

In our careers, we all face moments of uncertainty—whether it’s a job transition, a tough market, or a challenging project.

A positive attitude helps us navigate these moments with clarity and purpose. It keeps us moving forward, even when the path ahead isn’t clear. It’s about staying open to new opportunities, learning from every experience, and believing in our ability to adapt and succeed.

So, as you navigate your own career journey, I encourage you to embrace a positive attitude. It doesn’t mean ignoring the challenges, but it does mean approaching them with a mindset focused on growth and possibility. It’s about choosing to see the potential in every situation and recognizing that your attitude can influence not just your own experience, but the experience of those around you.

In the end, a positive attitude is a powerful tool that can help you achieve your goals, build strong relationships, and create a fulfilling career. And that’s something worth cultivating every day.