People-watching and observing others is a great way to get a unique perspective on human behavior, and it can offer a revealing glimpse into how we think. We often give verbal clues to what’s on our mind without even realizing it. Sometimes we can’t help but overhear someone else’s prideful remarks, and we cringe at the negative attitude behind the words. Our thoughts are important, and life is always better when we choose to embrace an attitude of gratitude.

Pride stems from self-centeredness, and it’s easy to fall into the trap of being proud if we’re not careful. This kind of a mindset always has consequences, and people who are trapped by their own pride put undue pressure on themselves. Proud individuals believe they must rely solely on their own self-efforts to get what they want out of life. They’re unaware that God will help them achieve their goals, if they rearrange their priorities first. “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33).

Learning to think differently than the way the world does is impossible without studying and meditating on the lessons the Bible teaches us. When we begin to foster a relationship with God in this way, we see a whole new level of thinking begin to take shape. When we feel the pressure to perform stealing our peace of mind, that’s an indication we’re operating in pride and self-centeredness. We reach the point of true humility when we let go of the things that make us feel worried and stressed, and give them to God to handle. “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7, NIV).

Shifting our focus away from ourselves to Jesus, and what he did for us on the cross two thousand years ago, puts things in a whole new light. He died and was resurrected to give us not only access into heaven, but also a peaceful, joyful, victorious life on earth, where we depend on him for everything we need. A grateful attitude for what he has done empowers us in ways we could never imagine. “O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever” (Psalm 136:1).  

We give strength to whatever we think about, and there is always something we can find to be thankful for. When we continue to focus on the good things we have in life and we count our blessings, our attitudes and mindset are transformed. “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things” (Philippians 4:8). When we change our thinking, we find that our speech also changes for the better. This is because we speak what originates in our heart and consequently finds its way into our mind.

Improving our attitude begins on the inside of us, and the change gradually becomes visible outwardly. When others see it and wonder how it happened, we can give God the credit. We can’t improve our quality of life when we trust in our own willpower or good intentions, but we can when we trust in him to do the work.