We each have the ability to choose how we approach our daily lives. What will you choose? I like to ground my attitude and actions around gratitude, optimism and belief.

Those are three pretty simple words, but they carry significant meaning for me – and for the work we all can do as leaders.

With gratitude, I’m reminded of how thankful I am for the accomplishments my company has made – together. But really, every organization should have reasons to be grateful – whether you’re the CEO, a manager, front-line employee –everyone.

Winning teams excel at being thankful. Make it a practice where you work. Make it genuine and authentic, too. Watch it spread, because gratitude also leads to optimism.

The idea behind optimism is that tomorrow will be better than today, and we all can have an impact on it. Optimism isn’t blind or naïve. Understand the issues you must tackle and areas for concern, and work on them together.

As leaders, this is about balanced and realistic optimism, and that stems from how your position yourself and your organization strategically. What do you have in place that will set you up to win? Get excited about them, and share your enthusiasm. My optimism is grounded in data and facts … in results and vision … in strategy. My company is poised to win, and an optimistic attitude gets us there even faster.

If courage is the one-word definition of leadership, then optimism is the foundation of courage.

I’m optimistic for all these reasons, but especially because of my belief in the people in my organization. We are better than we’ve ever been. And now is the time to realize our potential, harness it and use it to our advantage. I ask again: what will you choose?

Sometimes, we’re so close we don’t see it.

I hope you see it. I also hope you have the same sincere belief in your people and your organization … the same optimism in your future … and the same deep gratitude for the work you are doing.

Take time to share your optimism, belief and gratitude with those around you.