Attitude

As the market research team was presenting the findings of their survey completed the year before, I sat astounded at what I was seeing. A sizable group of patients who were diagnosed with what could be a terminal illness was asked a series of questions that were intended to uncover the attitudes and accompanying behaviors at least a year after the diagnosis had been made. Some of the group seemed chronically depressed and worried about complications. Others seemed to be in denial that anything was wrong. Still others showed angry and or blaming behaviors while some just seemed to be giving up on life. There was another group, however, that represented less than fifteen percent, who approached life with enthusiasm; they viewed their diagnosis as just another part of their lives, not a defining factor of for them. This group, termed by the research team as The Thrivalists, was “thriving” in each of their lives regardless of the diagnosis or secondary infections. Not surprisingly, this group showed the fewest hospitalizations and treatment complications, they were the most adherent to the treatment regimen, and they experienced the longest and highest quality of life, regardless of socioeconomic background. It boiled down to attitude (belief about one’s life and self therein) as the fuel that burns the desire to live with fullness in mind. I wonder at how great it would be if everyone could take on The Thrivalist attitude. Thankfulness for today is the first step on the stairway to the peak of healthy living!