Attitudes for Everyday Life – 2

Presented by Lisa Bishop

We’re examining the 5 attitudes for everyday life, and today, let’s look at our approachability.

How approachable are you? Do people find it easy to interact with you, or are you prickly, perhaps a bit dismissive, distracted, or disengaged?

Sometimes we can unintentionally put off an attitude that deters people from wanting to interact with us. Not too long ago, I worked with someone who frequently put off a grumpy vibe. Needless to say, it wasn’t super pleasant to work with him when his attitude was like a big dark rain cloud. As I prepared myself to go to work, I wondered, “Am I going to get the pleasant version or the wet blanket?” His demeanor created an uncomfortable atmosphere of walking on eggshells.

Now, we all have bad days, myself included, but if we find ourselves in a pattern of being easily irritated or edgy, we carry an imaginary sign that says do not disturb and disrupt our connection with people. We can damage relationships at home and the office, and our witness as followers of Jesus is hampered.

Digital distractions can also compromise our kinship with people. In this age of technology, there are way too many opportunities to check out of conversations and miss truly connecting with people around you. We want to consciously build connections with people, not send mixed signals. This can be particularly challenging when our plates are full, but we never want to be so busy we blow past investing in relationships.

When I think about ways of being that communicate approachability, I am reminded of Galatians 5:22-23.

The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

We need to be asking ourselves, “Does my attitude reflect the fruit of my faith?” “Do people feel loved, cared for, and included by me?” “Do I exude joy even in challenging or stress-filled circumstances?” “Am I patient and kind at work even when it’s crunch time?”

As followers of Jesus, we have a tremendous opportunity and responsibility to behave in ways becoming of Jesus; ways that put the glory of God on display. Our lives and demeanors are meant to invite people to engage with us, not turn them away. As you go about your day, how can you behave in a way that creates an invitation for connection and gives people the feeling that you are approachable?