How to Persevere with Kindness

This week, as I sat down to write the Summer of Strengths newsletter, I found myself pulled between two powerful strengths: kindness and perseverance. Life has been especially full lately, and I felt the familiar tug-of-war between pushing through to get things done and giving myself permission to slow down and show myself some compassion.

Writing the newsletter became a real-life lesson in how these strengths can sometimes feel at odds—but with a little awareness, they can actually work beautifully together.

The “Kindness” Strength: Lifting Yourself Up

Kindness is about caring for others—and for yourself. It means offering support, encouragement, and patience, not out of obligation but from a genuine desire to help. Kindness also means treating yourself with the same patience and gentleness you’d offer a good friend, especially when life gets hectic or you fall short of your own expectations.

Kindness in Action: Self-Kindness on a Busy Week

I’ll be honest: finding time to write my newsletter the past few weeks has been a real challenge. Between moving my college kids back home and taking some much-needed vacation time, my days have been full, my routines upended, and my to-do list never-ending.

In the past, I might have criticized myself for not being more productive or for struggling to keep up. But this time, I chose self-kindness. I seriously considered skipping the newsletter this week. However, this week while I was walking my dog, I was inspired to share my struggle. I reminded myself that it’s okay to adjust my expectations, to rest when I’m tired, and to celebrate the small wins.

By treating myself with the same compassion I’d offer a friend, I let go of perfection and found ways to make the writing easier & more enjoyable. Suddenly, I felt excited to create a newsletter this week! My self-kindness fueled my perseverance.

5 Ways to Practice Kindness (Including Self-Kindness)

  1. Speak to yourself as you would to a good friend.
  2. Give yourself permission to rest or take breaks—guilt-free!
  3. Offer a helping hand to someone who could use it.
  4. Write a note of encouragement (to yourself or someone else).
  5. Celebrate your efforts, not just your accomplishments.

The “Perseverance” Strength: Sticking With It

Perseverance means staying committed to your goals, even when things get tough. It’s not about being perfect, but about showing up consistently and pushing past obstacles. True perseverance is honoring your promises to yourself and finding meaning in the act of following through.

Perseverance in Action: Showing Up Every Week

Since last December, I’ve committed to writing my weekly newsletter—busy or bored, inspired or not. There was only one week I missed, and that was when I was sick and truly needed to rest. Each week, no matter what else was going on, I sat down to write, reflect, and connect with you.

Some weeks, the words flowed easily; other times, I had to dig deep, remind myself why I started and ask for support from the people in my life. One helpful tip from a friend- Imagine the readers that you are helping while writing. This took the focus off of me and moved it to others (And I find relationships really motivating.)

This commitment has taught me so much about the power of perseverance. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being consistent. It’s about honoring your promises to yourself and others, and finding meaning in the act of showing up.

5 Ways to Practice Perseverance

  1. Set a small, achievable goal and follow through—no matter what.
  2. Break big tasks into tiny steps and celebrate each one.
  3. Remind yourself why your goal matters to you.
  4. Reflect on a time you stuck with something and how it felt.
  5. When you hit a snag, pause, regroup, and try again.

This Week’s Strength Challenge

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment and tell me:

How will you bring more kindness and perseverance into your week?

Want to Go Deeper?

If you’re interested in a personalized strengths exploration, I’m offering a limited number of discounted strength sessions this summer. Email me at dianna@collierclan.net for details.

Unlock Wisdom with Perspective & Judgment

Looking for ways to handle stress better and bounce back from tough times? Want to boost your wellbeing as you get older, make smarter choices, and avoid being misled? This week, we’re focusing on two powerful strengths-perspective and judgement-that can help you do just that.

Like last week’s strengths of creativity and curiosity, perspective and judgment are part of the “wisdom” family. Let’s see how building these skills can help you live with more clarity, resilience, and meaning.

The “Perspective” Strength: Seeing the Bigger Picture in Life

Perspective is more than just intelligence-it’s about understanding the world in a way that makes sense to you and others. With perspective, you can:

  • Weigh different viewpoints before making decisions
  • Offer thoughtful advice
  • Consider life’s big questions about meaning and how to live well

This strength helps you navigate challenges with wisdom and empathy, making your insights valuable to yourself and those around you.

Perspective in Action:

When life hits you with more changes than you think you can handle, perspective becomes a lifeline. Last year, I faced a whirlwind of changes: my father passed away suddenly, both my daughters left for college, and I turned 50. It was a lot to take in, and it made me stop and really think about what matters most to me.

I started reflecting on what meaningful work looks like, how to age with grace, how to build stronger relationships, and how to find a deeper sense of purpose while making the most of every moment. Sometimes, I’d talk things through with friends or a coach; other times, I’d sort out my thoughts in a journal. Leaning on perspective helped me navigate those big changes and find clarity in the chaos.

5 Questions to Increase Perspective

  1. What values or priorities are most important to me now?
  2. How have I faced setbacks in the past and what did I learn?
  3. Are there any opportunities hidden in my current challenges?
  4. How can I connect with something greater than myself?
  5. Imagine you’re at the end of your life-how would you finish this sentence: “I wish I would have spent more time ________”?

The “Judgment” Strength: Clear and Open-Minded Thinking

Judgment is the strength that helps you make rational, logical choices. It means:

  • Analyzing ideas, opinions, and facts before deciding
  • Practicing critical thinking and weighing evidence fairly
  • Examining all sides of an issue instead of jumping to conclusions
  • Staying open-minded and willing to change your mind when new evidence appears

With good judgment, you make wiser decisions and approach challenges with clarity and fairness.

Judgment in Action:

When my younger daughter thought about switching her college major from chemistry to psychology, she put her judgment skills to work. She didn’t just think about which classes she liked more-she also took time to imagine what her future would look like in each field. She weighed the differences between working in a lab as a chemist and connecting with people as a therapist. In the end, she chose the path that let her use her listening skills and passion for supporting others’ mental health.

5 Activities to Build Judgement

  1. Reflect on a recent decision you weren’t happy with. Brainstorm better alternatives for next time.
  2. In conversations, ask questions to understand others’ perspectives before sharing your own.
  3. Expose yourself to new cultures, ideas, and people-read, watch, or listen to something outside your usual interests.
  4. When someone’s actions upset you, try to assume positive intent and consider what might be influencing them.
  5. Ask for feedback from people with different backgrounds or viewpoints, and use their input to challenge your assumptions.

This Week’s Strength Challenge:

I’d love to hear from you! Leave me a comment and tell me:

How will you bring more perspective & judgement into your week? Try one of the ideas above or create your own.

Want to Go Deeper?

If you’re interested in a personalized strengths exploration, I’m offering a limited number of discounted strength sessions this summer. Email me at dianna@collierclan.net for details.

Boost Confidence, Purpose & Possibilities

Welcome to the Summer of Strengths Series! This summer, we’ll explore the 24 character strengths identified by positive psychology researchers in my newsletter. Each week, we’ll spotlight two strengths-giving you practical ways to recognize and grow them in your own life.

What Are Character Strengths?

Character strengths are the positive qualities that shape how you think, feel, and act. Everyone has all 24 strengths, but in different amounts, making your strengths profile uniquely yours.

To get the most out of this series, I encourage you to take the free VIA character survey. It’s a quick, science-backed way to discover your personal ranking of strengths and learn more about what makes you, you.

This Week: Creativity & Curiosity for Fresh Energy and Possibility

We’re kicking off our journey with two strengths from the Wisdom virtue: creativity and curiosity. These strengths help us see the world in new ways, fueling our growth and opening us up to fresh possibilities every day.

Creativity: Seeing and Doing Things Differently and Excitingly

Creativity isn’t just about artistic achievements like painting or writing-it’s about finding new solutions, thinking outside the box, and bringing fresh ideas to any situation. Creative people look at the world with imagination and independence, generating original ideas that can make life more interesting and meaningful.

Creativity in Action

One of my clients is using his creativity to stay focused on his goals. He is programming his GPT AI to provide reminders related to his goals and why they are important to him. He’s even teaching it to interact with his sense of humor (another strong strength for my client.)

5 Ways to Spark Your Creativity

  1. Rearrange a room in your home for a fresh perspective.
  2. Write a short story, poem, or song-even if just for yourself.
  3. Start a creative project, like a vision board or a handmade greeting card.
  4. Invent a new recipe from what’s in your fridge.
  5. Solve a small problem in a new way, like finding a shortcut for a daily task.

Curiosity: Taking an Interest in a Variety of Experiences

Curiosity is about exploring, asking questions, and being open to new ideas, people, and places. Curious people have a strong desire to increase their own personal knowledge. Curiosity is closely linked to happiness and good relationships, as it keeps us engaged with the world and helps us grow.

Curiosity in Action

My family teases me because I often come home from the grocery store with stories about my cashier’s lives. I love asking positive open-ended questions and listening (ex. What are you looking forward to this weekend?) I frequently learn something new and make someone’s day a little brighter. Luckily, curiosity is a strength I get to use regularly in my coaching.

5 Ways to Practice Curiosity

  1. Explore a new place in your town or city, even if it’s just a different park or café.
  2. Start a conversation with someone you don’t know well and learn about their story.
  3. Look up a word you don’t know, find its origin, and use it in conversation.
  4. Take a routine activity and notice three unique things about it. Write down your observations or share them with a friend.
  5. Try a food, activity, or hobby you’ve never experienced before.

This Week’s Strength Challenge:

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment and tell me:

How will you bring more creativity & curiosity into your week? Try one of the ideas above or create your own.

Next Week: Judgement & Perspective

Next week we’ll explore how to tap into your inner wisdom with judgement & perspective.

Want to Go Deeper?

If you’re interested in a personalized strengths exploration, I’m offering a limited number of discounted strength sessions this summer. Email me at dianna@collierclan.net for details.

Nurturing Connection in Uncertain Times

When a cloud of uncertainty arrived in March 2020 with COVID-19, I was leading a small, personal renewal group for mothers. We quickly shifted from in-person meetings to Zoom, worked through the planned material, and then faced a choice: end the group or keep going. We chose to stay connected.

What began as a structured program evolved into a deep, enduring source of support-one that continues to this day. I’m no longer the sole facilitator-we share that role. Our conversations are shaped by books we choose together and by the experiences we bring. We have supported each other through health challenges, the passing of loved ones, career transitions, a move, children heading to college and many other significant changes. I’m deeply grateful for these lasting friendships. They remind me how a powerful community can anchor us during life’s fluctuations.

Today’s Tool for Uncertainty: Lean Into Connection

When life feels uncertain, one of the most powerful tools we have is each other. Connecting with others who understand our experiences can provide comfort, fresh perspective, and hope. By reaching out and building supportive relationships, we create a sense of belonging that helps us navigate uncertainty with greater resilience and optimism.

How to Find (or Build) Your Supportive Community

1. Identify What You Need

  • Reflect on what kind of support you’re seeking: Is it emotional support, practical advice, shared experiences, or simply companionship?
  • Consider whether you’d benefit most from a group related to your profession, personal interests, or a specific challenge you’re facing.
  • The more you understand your own needs, values, and emotions, the better you can find a group that addresses them.

2. Explore Communities

  • Local Organizations: Libraries, community centers, and places of worship often host support groups or clubs.
  • Professional Networks: Industry associations or alumni groups can be sources of both professional and personal support.
  • Look for workshops, classes, or seminars (virtual or in-person) on topics that interest you. These are great places to meet people who share your goals or challenges.
  • Volunteering is a powerful way to connect with positive, purpose-driven people. Shared service can quickly build trust and camaraderie.

3. Create Authentic Connections

  • Don’t be afraid to reach out first. Introduce yourself, join conversations, or suggest a coffee chat. Many people are looking for  connection but waiting for someone else to make the first move.
  • When you find a group or community, be willing to share your experiences and listen to others. Vulnerability fosters genuine connection.
  • Notice how you feel after spending time with a group. Supportive groups leave you feeling understood, energized, and hopeful-not drained or judged.

This Week’s Challenge:

I’d love to hear from you! Leave me a comment and tell me:

  • Where have you found unexpected community?
  • What’s one small step you’ll take this week to connect?

🎓 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗪𝗲𝗯𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀!

𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱’𝘀 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲

I’m thrilled to announce a brand new program for parents of high school and college-aged kids that I’m co-hosting with my colleague, Jennifer Hanawald!

🗓️ 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲: June 4th

⏰ 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲: 5:00pm CST

👩💼 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁𝘀: Dianna Collier & Jennifer Hanawald, Positive Psychology Coaches (& parents who’ve been there)

💻 𝗪𝗵𝗼’𝘀 𝗶𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿? Parents of high school and college-aged kids

💡 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂’𝗹𝗹 𝗴𝗲𝘁:

• Actionable tips for navigating the transition

• Q&A with experienced parent coaches

• Tools to regulate your emotions (all the ups & downs)

• Opportunity for meaningful connection with other parents

🔗 Reserve Your Spot: Registration Link

Summer of Strengths Preview

Starting next week, I will be exploring the 24 character strengths identified by the VIA Institute on Character and how to use them to:

  • Boost happiness in daily life
  • Feel more energized & confident
  • Bounce back from difficulties

Join the Summer of Strengths by signing up for my weekly newsletter, the Positive Pull.

Need Support?

If you’re craving deeper connections, let’s chat! Email dianna@collierclan.net for a free consultation.

Finding Stability When Life Feels Uncertain

Have you ever woken up with your heart pounding, your mind already spinning through a list of worries before your feet even hit the floor? I know that feeling all too well. When it happens to me, I turn to my morning mindfulness routine.

I savor my first sips of coffee, feeling the warmth in my hands. I take deep breaths, enjoying the comfort of my heated neck wrap. I pet my dog, noticing the softness of her fur. Then I step outside, tuning into the temperature of the air on my skin and the sounds around me-birds chirping, cars passing, the world waking up.

Today’s Tool for Uncertainty: Practice Mindfulness & Meditation
When the future feels overwhelming, certainty can be found in the present moment. Mindfulness helps us anchor ourselves, even when our minds want to race ahead. You don’t need a special setting or a lot of time-just a willingness to notice what’s happening right now. These tiny moments of awareness can bring surprising calm to your day.

5 Simple Ways to Add Mindfulness to Your Day

  1. Color Hunt: Pick a color for the day (try orange or purple!) and notice every place you see it.
  2. Blow Bubbles: Spend 5 minutes blowing bubbles. Watch their shape and color, and let your breath slow down.
  3. Bumble Bee Breathing: Inhale deeply, then hum like a bumble bee as you exhale.
  4. Breath Mantra: Sync a word or phrase to your breath-“In” as you inhale, “Out” as you exhale.
  5. Finger Focus: Gently rub your thumb up and down each finger, paying attention to the sensation. Repeat for each finger, then go through them all again.

To further reduce stress and prevent anxiety about uncertainty, develop a regular meditation practice. Research shows that regular meditation can significantly lower anxiety levels, improve emotional resilience, and help you respond to stress with greater calm and clarity.

5 Tips on Starting a Meditation Practice

1. Start Small and Build Consistency

  • Begin with just 2–5 minutes. Consistency matters more than duration-try the same time and place each day.

2. Find a Comfortable Position and Location

  • Choose a position and place where you feel comfortable and won’t be disturbed—this could be a chair, a bed, or even a park bench.
  • Comfort reduces distraction and helps you focus on the practice rather than physical discomfort.

3. Focus on Your Breath

  • Use your breath as an anchor for your attention. 
  • Don’t worry if your mind drifts—this is normal. The key is to notice when it happens and gently bring your attention back to your breath.

4. Be Kind to Yourself

  • Approach meditation with patience and self-compassion. Meditation isn’t about perfection. If your mind drifts or you feel restless, that’s okay. Smile inwardly and try again.

5. Experiment and Adapt

  • There’s no single “right” way to meditate. Try different times of day, locations, and techniques (like body scans or guided meditations) to find what works best for you.
  • If you miss a session or struggle to focus, don’t get discouraged—just start again the next day.

This Week’s Challenge:

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment and share:

How will you practice mindfulness or meditation this week?

Next Week

Stay tuned for the final powerful tool to help you thrive through uncertainty.

Need Support for Positive Change?

If you’re ready for personalized strategies to navigate life’s challenges, email me at dianna@collierclan.net for a free consultation.

Feeling Stuck? 7 Ways to Process Stress and Find Calm

Recently, a friend called me and said, “I need to vent. I’m setting a timer for one minute.” She quickly shared her biggest stressors, finishing in just 55 seconds. We both laughed, and I acknowledged how much she was carrying—much of it outside her control. Instead of jumping into problem-solving, we simply connected and appreciated our friendship.

That moment wasn’t about fixing her stressors. It was about completing the stress cycle—helping her body move out of “fight or flight” and into a calmer state. She even planned to scribble furiously at work if she felt stressed again, knowing her challenges were ongoing.

Today’s Tool for Dealing with Uncertainty: Completing the Stress Cycle

When life feels uncertain and stress is chronic, it’s important to help your body process stress—not just your mind. If we don’t, stress can show up as physical pain, illness, or unhelpful habits like rumination.

7 Ways to Complete the Stress Cycle

(adapted from Burnout by Emily & Amelia Nagoski) 

  1. Physical Activity

Moving your body is the gold standard for processing stress. 20-60 minutes daily is recommended for dealing with chronic stress, but shorter movement breaks are also helpful.

  • Dance to a song
  • Walk or run around the block
  • Shake out your arms or legs
  • Do a quick workout (jumping jacks, squats, your favorite yoga poses)
  • Stretch & pace around the room
  1. Breathing

Slow, deep breaths can calm your nervous system. Try making your exhale longer than your inhale—imagine blowing bubbles or a pinwheel.

  1. Positive Social Interaction

Friendly exchanges signal safety to your body.

  • Say hello to a neighbor or co-worker
  • Share a kind word with a stranger
  • Text or call a friend
  1. Laughter

Laughter helps regulate our emotions & strengthens social bonds.

  • Watch a funny comedy clip
  • Read a humorous book, story or comic strip
  • Recall a hilarious memory & share it
  • Spend time with people (or animals) that make you laugh
  1. Affection (Loving Touch)

Connection with trusted people (or pets!) can restore a sense of safety. 

  • Share a 20 second hug with someone you trust
  • Give a 6 second kiss to your partner before leaving or returning home
  • Snuggle with a pet or cuddle under a blanket
  1. Crying

Let yourself feel and release emotions—frustration, sadness, anxiety, anger. Sometimes a good cry is exactly what you need. Listen to sad music or watch an emotional movie if it helps.

  1. Creative Expression

Creative activities allow us to express and release big emotions.

  • Doodle or color in an adult coloring book
  • Sing along to your favorite song
  • Try writing a poem or completing a quick, creative writing exercise
  • Try watercolor or splatter painting
  • Recite your favorite dialogue from a movie & pretend you are playing the part

This Week’s Challenge:

I’d love to hear from you! Leave me a comment and share:

How will you complete your stress cycle this week?

Next Week

Stay tuned for another powerful tool to help you thrive through uncertainty.

Need Support for Positive Change?

If you’re ready for personalized strategies to navigate life’s challenges, email me at dianna@collierclan.net for a free consultation.

How to Embrace Failure & Thrive

When I work with clients navigating career transitions—whether by choice or due to an unexpected layoff—we always start by defining what success looks like for the week ahead. But let’s be honest: there’s a lot of uncertainty in these moments. What will actually work? Immediate results aren’t realistic, so we focus on the process instead—taking potentially helpful steps and prioritizing self-care.

Here’s the thing: success doesn’t always look like a big win. Maybe they applied to some interesting jobs, got out of the house, and practiced mindful breathing throughout the day. That’s a victory! Or maybe they searched for jobs but didn’t find anything exciting, stayed home all week, and didn’t find mindful breathing helpful. Guess what? That’s still a victory! Why? Because effort was made, and valuable information was collected.

Here’s the truth: failure informs success. The more you “fail,” the closer you get to figuring out what works.

Tool #5 for Dealing with Uncertainty: Loosening Expectations

Things will go wrong—and that’s okay. Research shows we adapt to disappointments faster than we expect. In fact, the fear of failure is often more painful than failure itself. Taking risks and experimenting as you work toward your goals is how you learn what works best for you.

Failure isn’t final—it’s information. It guides you toward success, whether your goal is landing a fulfilling new job or simply making it through the day without feeling overwhelmed by political or economic turmoil.

Give yourself permission to adjust your plans as you gain new information and experiences. For example, one of my clients is creating her first online course—a completely new type of project for her. Along the way, she’s had to pivot multiple times, adjusting her schedule and deadlines based on what she learns through trial and error. By running small experiments, she gathers insights that help her plan her next steps more effectively.

3 Steps to Loosen Expectations & Find Success in Failure

  1. Start with Self-Compassion
    Failure can be frustrating—so acknowledge that it’s painful (don’t push those feelings away). Remind yourself that setbacks are a normal part of life; everyone experiences them. Practice speaking kindly to yourself. For example, I keep a sticky note above my computer that says:
    “I am granting myself grace today. I am in the process of learning.”
    If you struggle with self-compassion, imagine what you’d say to a friend going through the same situation—and say it to yourself.
  2. Explore What You Learned
    Every failure is an opportunity for growth. Ask yourself:
    • Is there something I could change that might produce different results?
    • Do I need to adjust my environment or timing?
    • Is there a skill gap I need to fill with additional resources or support?
  3. Do Something Fun
    Failure can be stressful, so give yourself time to recover before tackling your next challenge. Whether it’s watching a funny movie, going for a walk, or spending time with friends, doing something enjoyable will help recharge your energy.

This Week’s Challenge:

I’d love to hear from you! Leave me a comment and share:

  • A recent “failure” that taught you something valuable
  • How you’re loosening expectations in your own life

Next Week

Stay tuned for another powerful tool to help you thrive through uncertainty.

Need Support for Positive Change?

If you’re ready for personalized strategies to navigate life’s challenges, email me at dianna@collierclan.net for a free consultation.

How Beauty & Excellence Can Uplift You in Tough Times

The world can feel overwhelming at times, with rapid changes, uncertainty, and unsettling news. Rising prices, job layoffs, and other challenges often dominate our attention. Even as I write these words, I feel the weight of these realities. But there’s a tool that can help: it’s a way to cultivate hope, awe, and positivity—even when life feels difficult.

Let’s explore Tool #4: Noticing Beauty & Excellence.What is Appreciation of Beauty & Excellence?

Appreciation of beauty and excellence is the ability to recognize and take pleasure in:

  • Natural beauty: The wonders of nature.
  • Moral beauty: Acts of kindness or goodness.
  • Excellence: Skilled performances in any domain.

This strength enhances emotional well-being by fostering positive emotions like awe, gratitude, and hope. It’s a simple yet powerful way to shift your focus toward what’s good in the world.The Power of Noticing Beauty & Excellence During Hard Times

Last spring, my father passed away unexpectedly. When I traveled to Rhode Island for his funeral, I was overwhelmed with grief. Yet amidst the sorrow, I found moments of peace by noticing the beauty around me.

I saw daffodils and tulips blooming—their vibrant colors brought a sense of calm. Sitting on a rock by the ocean, I watched waves gently lap against the shore and felt deeply connected to nature—and to my father.

I also experienced the goodness of people as cousins I hadn’t spoken to in years reached out with heartfelt support. While these moments didn’t erase my loss, they reminded me that not everything is bad in the world. They gave me hope that healing was possible.

9 Activities to Highlight Beauty & Excellence AND Inspire, Bring Hope, and Positive Energy Back

Here are some simple ways to practice this tool:

  1. Take a Beauty Walk: Be intentional about noticing nature’s beauty as you walk.
  2. Daily Beauty Photos: Capture one beautiful thing each day for a week—share it with others for extra joy!
  3. Positive News: Seek out uplifting stories on sites like Good News Network or Upworthy.
  4. Savor Excellent Food: Choose a favorite dish and eat it slowly, savoring its flavors, textures, and aromas.
  5. Appreciate Musical Excellence: Listen deeply to a song you love—notice its lyrics, rhythm, or instrumental skill.
  6. Discover Beautiful Art: Visit an art museum or gallery; reflect on the creativity and skill behind each piece.
  7. Notice Human Goodness: Look for small acts of kindness around you—a smile from a stranger, a driver letting you over in traffic or someone holding the door. Identify strengths in your friends, family & co-workers.
  8. Enjoy Poetry or Literature: Read something that moves you; appreciate how language evokes emotions or imagery.
  9. Marvel at Athletic Skill: Watch sports highlights or games; admire the precision and dedication required for excellence.

This Week’s Challenge:

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment and share:

Where have you found beauty or excellence recently?

Next Week – A Beautiful Challenge (Join Me!)

I’ll be completing a 7-day challenge focused on appreciating beauty and excellence. Join me on Linkedin to participate. Stay tuned for another powerful tool to help you thrive through uncertainty.

Need Support for Positive Change?

If you’re ready for personalized strategies to navigate life’s challenges, email me at dianna@collierclan.net for a free consultation.

Break Free from the Overthinking Trap: 7 Powerful Strategies

Have you ever found yourself caught in a mental merry-go-round, thoughts spinning endlessly? 

Maybe you’re replaying past mistakes, imagining “what-ifs,” or worrying about the future. It’s tempting to believe that if we just think hard enough, we’ll solve all our problems. But here’s the truth: overthinking rarely leads to solutions. Instead, it often leaves us feeling stuck and drained.

The Overthinking Dilemma–Makes You MORE STUCK
Research shows that rumination can:

  • Hinder our problem-solving abilities
  • Deepen feelings of sadness
  • Disrupt our focus and motivation
  • Fuel negative, inaccurate thinking

Today, let’s explore Tool #3: Interrupting Overthinking.

7 Strategies to Break Free from Overthinking 

(adapted from The How of Happiness by Sonja Lyubomirsky)

  1. Engage in Positive Distractions
    Immerse yourself in activities that spark joy and positivity. Consider music, movement and connection with other  people. My go-to? A brisk walk while listening to Trevor Noah’s “What Now?” podcast. Find your own blend of movement, humor, and engagement.
  2. Practice Thought-Stopping
    Tell yourself “Stop” or visualize a stop sign or a brick wall when rumination starts. Strengthen this skill through meditation:
    • Close your eyes
    • Take 5-10 deep breaths
    • Focus on your breath, gently redirecting when your mind wanders
    • Open your eyes and notice how you feel
  3. Schedule Worry Time
    Allocate a specific 30-minute window for rumination. When intrusive thoughts arise outside this time, remind yourself: “Not now, I’ll think about this later.”
  4. Share with a Supportive Listener
    The social interaction is likely to boost your mood and make you feel less alone. Choose someone who can offer perspective, not fuel your worries. If you’re struggling to find the right person, consider reaching out to a coach or therapist. 
  5. Journal Your Thoughts
    Writing can help you release pent-up worries and spot patterns you might miss otherwise.
  6. Gain Perspective
    Ask yourself: “Will this matter in a year?” If yes, what can you learn from the situation?
  7. Take Action to Solve Your Problems
    Identify one small, manageable step you can take right now. Ask yourself: “What’s the easiest thing I can do?” or “What small change could make my life 2% better this week?”

By implementing these strategies, you’ll not only increase your happiness but also navigate life’s uncertainties with greater ease and resilience.

This Week’s Challenge:

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment and share:

What is your favorite way to interrupt overthinking?

Next Week:

Stay tuned for another powerful tool to help you thrive through uncertainty.

Need Support for Positive Change?

Ready for personalized strategies to navigate life’s challenges? Email dianna@collierclan.net for a free consultation.

Job Suddenly Gone? How to Deal Positively

Imagine waking up one morning to the news that your job, the one you’ve dedicated years to, has been suddenly terminated. What the BLEEP happens now?!

The shock of being laid off can hit hard, and with it comes a whirlwind of emotions—anger, betrayal, and a deep sense of loss.

You may feel disoriented, unsure of where to turn, and question your own worth. Longtime colleagues are gone, and you’re left wondering what the future holds.

In moments like these, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, finding a way to navigate this uncertainty is crucial to regaining control.

What Certainty Do We Have?

Today, let’s dive into Tool #2: Identify Your Strengths & Values.

Your strengths and values can serve as a stable, guiding force during times of upheaval, like a layoff or career change. This tool will help you tap into your unique strengths and unlock more positive emotions, even during tough transitions.

What Are Character Strengths?

Character strengths are the best parts of our personalities—the qualities that help us thrive. Research has identified 24 distinct character strengths, including:

  • Creativity
  • Curiosity
  • Bravery
  • Love of Learning
  • Perseverance
  • Kindness
  • Humor
  • Leadership
  • Hope
  • Gratitude
  • Social Intelligence

…and more.

Each of us possesses all 24 strengths, but we express them in different ways and to varying degrees.

How Can You Use This to Shift Gears, Be Positive, and Get Renewed About an Even Better Job.

Take a moment to explore your core values and top character strengths by taking the VIA (Values in Action) survey. It’s free. This will give you insights into what makes you unique and how you can use your strengths to thrive in challenging times.

Here are some reflective questions to guide you:

  • Are your top strengths aligned with who you truly are? If not, what strengths feel more central to you?
  • When you consider times when you were successful, what strengths were you using?
  • When facing challenges, which strengths did you rely on to keep going?
  • What strengths will you need to draw on to create your best possible future?

A Case Example

One of my clients, who was seeking a career change, made a list of the qualities he wanted in his new job. These qualities were deeply connected to his values and strengths. By aligning his job search with this list, he could easily evaluate opportunities from a “position of power.” He also leaned into his creativity, humor, and love to stay motivated and positive during the process.

This Week’s Challenge:

I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment and share:

  • What strength is central to who you are?
  • How will you use it this week?

Next Week:

I’ll return with another tool to help you thrive through uncertainty.

Need Support for Positive Change?

If you are looking for personalized strategies to navigate a layoff or career transition, let’s talk. Email dianna@collierclan.net for a free consultation.