The Intellectual Pillar of SPIRE: Unlock Joyful Growth

Whether you’re tackling a big goal, navigating a tough challenge, or embarking on an uncharted journey, today’s exploration of INTELLECT could offer the positive push you need to persevere. 

Have you ever followed a spark of curiosity and stumbled upon something extraordinary? Maybe it led you to a hidden gem of a restaurant, an unexpected friendship, or a moment that shifted your perspective.

Last year, while wandering Brussels’ cobblestone streets, my family and I were drawn by the rhythm of distant drums. We followed the sound—and discovered a surrealist parade: fantastical floats, performers in kaleidoscopic costumes, and a crowd buzzing with joy. 

That unplanned detour became one of the highlights of our trip. This pic shows some of the fun from that moment … 

Last week, we explored the Physical Pillar– caring for your body & harnessing the mind-body connection. Today, let’s dive into the Intellectual Pillar: engaging in deep learning, and opening to experience. 

Learning isn’t just for book lovers or classroom enthusiasts—it’s about staying open to the lessons hidden in everyday moments, whether you’re trying a new hobby, solving a problem, or simply asking, “I wonder why…”

Curiosity brings happiness

Like nourishing food for the body, curiosity feeds our engagement with life, turning everyday moments into opportunities to discover and grow. While we often think of curiosity as exploring the world around us, its greatest power might lie in how we turn it inward.

When we reflect on ourselves, it’s easy to fixate on flaws or setbacks—a habit wired into us for survival. But what if, instead of focusing on what’s broken, we channel that curiosity toward what’s already working? What lights us up? What makes us resilient? 

This shift—from criticism to wonder—can transform self-awareness into a tool for joy, not judgment.

Ready to try? Grab a journal and explore the questions below. Tip: Think like a scientist observing your own life—no judgment, just discovery.

Your Positive Curiosity Experiment:

  1. What do you love to learn? 
  2. When do you feel most connected in your relationships? 
  3. What are some strengths you value in yourself? How can you use these strengths in new ways?
  4. What do you appreciate about your body? 
  5. How have you supported yourself during challenging times? Can you apply these insights to current struggles?

This Week’s Challenge

Post a comment and share: When did curiosity lead you somewhere wonderful? I’ll feature my favorite story in next week’s newsletter!

Next Week: The Relational Pillar of SPIRE– nurturing a constructive relationship with yourself & others.

Want Personalized Support?

If you’re ready to turn curiosity into actionable growth, let’s chat! Email me at dianna@collierclan.net to schedule a free consultation. 

Published by Dianna

I’m a Certified Positive Psychology Coach helping people go through challenging transitions and making important changes so they can realize meaningful goals.

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