Humility- Letting Go When It’s Hard

Have you ever caught yourself holding on tightly to an idea—or finding it tough to admit you don’t have all the answers? You’re not alone. 

What if letting go—just a little—could actually make life smoother? 

I’ve learned this firsthand as a parent to my college-age daughters. Parenting teens and young adults brings a unique challenge: your role shifts from being the all-knowing authority to stepping back as a coach or mentor. When your kids are small, you usually know what’s best. But as they grow up, they become the experts on their own lives—and they want to make their own choices.

That shift requires us, as parents, to let go of control. We have to trust our kids to find their own path, even if it’s difficult to watch from the sidelines.

That’s where humility comes in. It is the secret ingredient that makes this transition easier. Humility allows us to admit we don’t know everything, to stay open to learning, and to accept mistakes—both our own and our kids’. When we lean into humility, we create space for real growth and deeper, more meaningful connections with the people we love.

The Strength of Humility

Humility is recognizing and accepting both your strengths and your limitations. It’s about seeing yourself honestly, without exaggerating your talents or downplaying your accomplishments—and appreciating the value in others, too. 

People with humility are content to step out of the spotlight and center their attention on those around them. They are open to new ideas and learning because their sense of self is not threatened by being wrong. 

Humility in Action

Confession time: writing about my own humility feels a bit like announcing my modesty on a neon billboard—now starring, the humblest! But if you’ll forgive the irony, here’s how I try to put humility to work in real life.

Before every coaching call, I pause, place a hand over my heart, and repeat to myself, “May I be useful.” This little ritual helps me shift the focus away from myself and toward being present for my client.

During sessions, I make it a point to listen more than I talk. My goal is to really understand my client’s motivations, struggles, and feelings—without judgment or jumping in to “fix” things. I search for their strengths and values, so I can reflect those qualities back and help them see their own wisdom. If I have a resource to offer, I always ask for permission first. The coaching process is about the client, not me—I strive to keep it client-centered and directed every step of the way.

I try to bring these same listening skills to my relationship with my young adult children. Sometimes, I get it right. When I do, I get a real window into their world and see how resourceful they are in the face of challenges. Our connection grows stronger, and they feel truly seen. Of course, there are days I miss the mark—when distractions creep in or I slip back into “expert” mode. Those are my reminders to apologize and practice a little self-compassion.

5 Ways to Build Humility

  1. Notice the balance in conversations: Do you speak more than others in a group? Focus on listening deeply instead of planning your response.
  1. Give and receive compliments with grace: Offer sincere praise when someone outshines you. Accept compliments humbly, without self-deprecation or deflection.
  1. Seek out input: Ask for others’ perspectives when you’re unsure. Valuing others’ knowledge chips away at pride and grows trust.
  1. Practice gratitude: Regularly thank those who support you. Practicing gratitude refocuses attention from yourself to the broader community around you.
  1. Serve without expectation: Volunteer or perform small acts of kindness. Helping others reminds us that we’re all works in progress, learning together.

This Week’s Strength Challenge

I’d love to hear from you! 

How will you build humility this week?

I’d love to hear your thoughts—jump over to my blog and join the conversation!

New Group Coaching for Parents of Young Adults

I’m thrilled to introduce Positive Launch—a group coaching for parents and caregivers of high school and college students that want to stay connected with their young adults & ease the transition to independence (college, adulthood & beyond!) 

Together with my colleague, Jennifer Hanawald, we’ve created a 90-minute coaching program designed to give you evidence-based tools to make this transition the best it can possibly be. Participants will explore & practice active listening, identifying & leveraging strengths and self-compassion while connecting with other parents. This idea grew out of a need that Jennifer and I saw, based on personal and professional experiences.

The Details:

  • Date & Time: Sunday, September 21, 4–5:30 PM EST
  • Cost: Introductory rate of $99
  • How to Register: Register here

Want more information? Join our free 30-minute info session
Sunday, August 17 @ 4pm EST. Register here, or simply reply to this email with any questions.

Shift Your Mood With Gratitude

I used to cringe whenever I heard people talk about gratitude in the media. It felt like there was this unspoken pressure to be thankful for everything, all the time—and if I wasn’t, I’d feel a twinge of shame. 

Sometimes, it felt like people were just saying they were grateful because they were supposed to, not because they truly meant it.

But after more than a decade exploring positive psychology and trying out different gratitude practices, my view has shifted. I still believe gratitude—and positivity—can be misused in ways that feel forced or even toxic. But I’ve also seen firsthand how authentic gratitude can be a real source of strength. 

Gratitude isn’t something we “should” feel; it’s an option, a possibility we can reach for—even when life is tough.

“Gratitude” as a Strength

Gratitude is all about truly feeling and expressing thankfulness for the people and moments that enrich our lives. It’s about pausing to appreciate both the big gestures and the small, everyday gifts, whether it’s a thoughtful act from a friend or the simple pleasure of a cool breeze on a hot day. 

What is unique about gratitude is the deep sense of having received something valuable, which often brings a wave of positive emotion and a desire to connect more deeply with others.

When we make gratitude a regular practice, we start to see more of the positives around us, deepen our connections, and even shift our outlook on life, leading to more kindness, empathy, and a greater sense of purpose.

Gratitude in Action

Travel always seems to wake up my sense of gratitude. On a recent trip to Kauai, I felt it in so many moments—starting with the simple joy of being outdoors. Back home in Austin, the rising summer heat had kept me cooped up inside, but in Kauai, I could finally soak up fresh air, wander among lush plants, spot colorful birds, and listen to the waves on the beach. Each day, I found myself pausing to take it all in, feeling genuinely thankful for the beauty around me.

What made this trip even more special was sharing it with my husband and our adult daughters. For the first time in ages, none of us were working. We had the rare chance to explore, relax, and reconnect—whether we were swimming, indulging in shaved ice, or just watching the sunset together. 

Even after returning home, my gratitude didn’t end. I found myself appreciating the cool blast of AC after Kauai’s sticky nights, the comfort of my own bed, and even my trusty neck wrap. As I eased back into my routine, I was grateful for my favorite yoga classes, which helped work out the travel kinks. These moments, big and small, reminded me how gratitude can shift my outlook and help me savor both adventure and the comforts of home.

5 Ways to Practice Gratitude

  1. Express appreciation in a specific way. Instead of a quick “thanks,” try being descriptive: “I appreciate how you volunteered to pick up the dog from the kennel when I was tired from traveling. That gave me a chance to rest.” Notice how people respond to detailed gratitude versus a simple “thanks.”
  1. Write down up to five things you feel grateful for in a journal. You don’t have to do this daily—research suggests that once a week can be even more powerful than doing it every day.
  1. Verbally or in writing, thank the people who’ve contributed to your success. Reflect on how your achievements are shaped by others’ helpful influence as well as your own effort.
  1. Practice mindful gratitude by taking a few deep breaths and focusing on what you appreciate in the present moment. 
  1. Reflect on challenges and see if you can find a lesson or a silver lining to appreciate, even in tough times. When my father was ill with incurable cancer, I was deeply grateful for the opportunity to say goodbye. I also was very thankful for his doctors that talked & cried with us; that gratitude helped me find meaning during a painful time.

This Week’s Strength Challenge

I’d love to hear from you! 

What have you felt thankful for this past week? 

How will you practice gratitude this week?

Leave me a comment—I look forward to hearing your ideas.

Need Support for Positive Change?

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

Your Purpose Awaits: Explore Spirituality

Have you ever felt lost or empty, searching for something that gives your life deeper meaning and purpose? 

Many of us experience this longing, especially during big transitions—like career changes, midlife, or when our children leave home. These moments often prompt deep reflection about where we fit in the world and what truly matters.

As a positive psychology coach, I regularly work with clients who, after feeling disconnected or unfulfilled in previous roles, are seeking work that offers deeper meaning or aligns with a mission greater than themselves. 

For some, this desire for deeper meaning comes as their role as a parent evolves, opening new possibilities—and sometimes, a bit of uncertainty about their purpose. It’s in these times that the character strength of spirituality can offer real direction and hope.

“Spirituality” as a Strength

Spirituality is all about discovering deeper meaning and purpose by connecting with something greater than yourself—whether through faith, personal values, or a sense of wonder. This connection brings hope, optimism, and grounding as you navigate life’s journey. 

You don’t have to be religious to experience it; spirituality can be found in everyday moments, personal beliefs, or simply by appreciating the extraordinary in the ordinary.

Spirituality in Action

One of my clients found her spirituality to be a powerful anchor during a divorce as she built a new business and formed new relationships. She uses “God’s Word” as a moral compass, finding comfort in the belief that she’s part of a larger plan—even when the path ahead feels unclear. This spirituality has fueled her perserverance and humility as she trusts that she just needs to take the next right step.

But spirituality isn’t limited to religion. Other clients have connected to something greater through nature, acts of service, or by embodying qualities like compassion. These experiences show that spirituality is as unique and meaningful as each person’s journey.

5 Ways to Explore Spirituality

  1. Practice mindfulness or meditation: Set aside time to be present and reflect on your place in the universe.
  1. Build purpose: Take on a new volunteer role in your community to connect your actions with a greater mission.
  1. Contemplate the sacred in everyday moments: Find meaning in ordinary experiences, such as a beautiful sunset, a kind gesture, or a moment of quiet reflection.
  1. Engage with nature: Spend time outdoors to experience awe and connect with something larger than yourself.
  1. Participate in rituals or traditions: Engage in practices—religious or secular—that help you feel connected and grounded. 

This Week’s Strength Challenge

I’d love to hear from you! Leave me a comment below.

How will you explore your spirituality this week?

I can’t wait to read your stories and ideas.

Turning Setbacks Into Laughter

After some thoughtful feedback and a bit of reflection, I’ve decided to switch things up and focus on just one character strength each week instead of two. 

I want the blog to be easier to digest and more practical to put into action—plus, it’ll be a bit lighter and more enjoyable to read. Thanks for sticking with me on this journey of growth!

Speaking of making things easier and more enjoyable, who couldn’t use a good laugh these days? 

This week, I’m excited to dive into the character strength of humor. It’s a wonderful way to lighten our moods, connect with others, and bring a little more joy into everyday life. Let’s explore how embracing humor can brighten our outlook and strengthen our resilience.

The “Humor” Strength

Humor helps us find the playful side of life, making others smile or laugh even when times get tough. It acts like a social lubricant, easing conversations and helping groups connect more easily. By viewing adversity with a cheerful outlook, humor helps us sustain a good mood and cope with stress in a positive way.

Humor in Action (Turning a Setback Into a Laugh)

It all started with a small pen stain on my daughter’s new shirt. It was just a tiny ink mark that somehow felt like a major setback. As she and I stood together, trying various stain-removal tricks (spoiler: none of them worked), 

I sighed and said, “You know, if I could have any minor household superpower, I’d choose the ability to remove any laundry stain with a snap of my fingers.”

We started brainstorming other minor superpowers we’d actually want—no big powers, because that would be too easy. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • Automatic matching of socks in the laundry (because who hasn’t lost a sock to the mysterious abyss of the dryer?)
  • Always having gas in the car when you need to drive (which would save us both a lot of last-minute panic)
  • Instant repair of broken plates and glasses (since accidents happen)

Before long, we were laughing at our own wish list of silly, practical superpowers. The pen stain was still there, but suddenly it didn’t feel like such a big deal. Sometimes, a little humor and a shared “what if?” is all it takes to turn a frustrating moment into a funny memory.

5 Ways to Promote Humor (And a Good Laugh)

  1. Watch Comedy Shows or Stand-Up: Schedule regular time to enjoy comedy shows or stand-up performances, either alone or with others, to keep your sense of humor sharp and engaged.
  2. Use Self-Deprecating Humor: Don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself when things go a little sideways. It makes you more relatable and helps others feel comfortable.
  3. Seek Out Funny Content: Try listening to a funny podcast or audiobook, looking at humorous comic strips, or watching a quick video that makes you smile or laugh (silly animals anyone?). This sets a playful tone for the hours ahead.
  4. Infuse Your Routine with Playfulness: Lighten the mood by weaving in games, or light-hearted humor throughout your week. Share funny memes or amusing stories with your friends.
  5. Create a Humor Journal: At the end of the day, write about three funny things that happened to you during the day. Later, you can return to your writing for an instant mood boost.

This Week’s Strength Challenge

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

What’s your go-to minor superpower? 

What made you laugh this past 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.

How to Build Your Hope & Love Strengths to Thrive More

How do you feel when you look ahead? Are you filled with optimism and hope, or do you find yourself weighed down by uncertainty and worry?

If you’re feeling more anxious than inspired about the future, you’re not alone—and there’s good news.

This is Key! Hope isn’t just a feeling; it’s a skill you can strengthen with practice, and there are practical steps you can take to nurture it.

In my work as a coach, I strive to kindle realistic hope in every client.

Interestingly, I find it much easier to inspire hope in others than in myself.

For me, hope sits somewhere in the middle of my character strengths — reliable in some areas of my life, but harder to access in others.

When hope feels out of reach, I often turn to my greatest strengths: love and perspective. These qualities help me find my way back to hope.

The “Hope” Strength (Which Brings Meaning)

Hope is about having positive expectations for the future and believing in your ability to make those good things happen.

It involves having the motivation and confidence to pursue goals and the ability to find and follow multiple paths to achieve those goals.

When you have hope, you’re more likely to find meaning, enjoyment, and satisfaction in your life.

Hope In Action (For Precious Positive Energy)

Many of my coaching clients come to me after a layoff or during a period of burnout, feeling discouraged and unsure about their next steps. By the end of our sessions, they often feel a renewed sense of hope and see more possibilities for their future careers.

Here are some of the ways we generate that hope together:

  • We look back at times when they excelled at work to identify what made those experiences successful.
  • We brainstorm career paths that would not only be stable but also enjoyable and meaningful.
  • We explore their unique strengths and talk about how these can be applied to different roles.
  • We discuss practical ways to connect with people in new industries they’re interested in.
  • We explore new skills they can learn that will open up opportunities.
  • We work on customizing their resumes to highlight their strengths for a variety of opportunities.
  • We break down their goals into smaller, doable action steps, making the path forward feel less overwhelming and much more achievable.

With each step, clients begin to see that their future can be shaped in positive, exciting ways.

5 Ways to Create Hope

  1. Break down the steps needed to achieve complex goals and make a visual map.
  2. Celebrate small wins along the way to larger goals. Reflect on past successes to remind yourself of your strengths and resilience.
  3. Surround yourself with supportive, optimistic people. Accept their encouragement and help when you are facing obstacles.
  4. Prime your environment with pictures or quotes that inspire you.
  5. Learn new skills or try new activities to open up fresh possibilities for the future.

The “Love” Strength (Relationship Glue)

The character strength of love refers to valuing and nurturing close relationships with others, especially those where caring and warmth are shared in both directions. It involves both giving and receiving affection and support, and is one of the strengths most strongly linked to life satisfaction.

Love in Action

When I’m struggling to feel hopeful, I lean on the important people in my life to help me get back on track. Since I strongly value relationships and actively cultivate them—Love is my #1 strength—I’m fortunate to have a circle of amazing friends and family who support me when I’m low. Sometimes, just a reminder that I’m not alone is all I need to spark hope. Other times, I need help seeing the bigger picture or finding a new path forward—that’s where my perspective comes in.

I make it a priority to schedule walks, lunch dates, and regular phone calls or texts with out-of-town friends, making sure these connections stay strong. Humor and shared laughter are a big part of these relationships, helping us all feel lighter and more hopeful together.

5 Ways to Strengthen Love

  • Practice spontaneous loving acts or share your affection in words. Example: Send a funny text to a friend—like a dancing fruit or vegetable GIF every day for a week. When a friend did this for me, it showed she was thinking about me and wanted to brighten my day.
  • Express your love creatively. Try writing a poem, composing a heartfelt note, or drawing a picture. For example, another friend of mine creates beautiful calligraphy notes using watercolors.
  • Schedule time with people you care about. Make plans to do something fun together, whether it’s a walk, a game night, or just catching up over coffee.
  • Develop a loving-kindness meditation practice. Guided meditations are available online, such as those from Greater Good in Action.
  • Show genuine interest in your loved one’s passions and challenges. Ask thoughtful questions about what excites or worries them, and offer support—this builds deeper connection and trust.

This Week’s Strength Challenge

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

How will you kindle hope and love this 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.

Energize Your Life: Boost Zest & Learning

Are you excited to get up in the morning and start your day? Do you approach life with energy and enthusiasm? As much as I want to answer “yes!” to those questions, I often find myself lacking that spark—even after a good night’s sleep. And I know I’m not alone.

It turns out that zest—approaching life with excitement and energy—is one of the least common strengths worldwide. Yet, it’s also one of the strongest predictors of life satisfaction. That’s a wake-up call! So, how do we cultivate more zest in our lives?

To tackle this challenge, I decided to lean on one of my own top strengths: love of learning. Fortunately, using our signature strengths can be energizing in itself, giving me a head start on my quest for more zest.

The “Love of Learning” Strength

Love of learning is all about a passion for mastering new skills, topics, and ideas—whether through formal classes or self-directed exploration. People with this strength are energized by the process of learning itself, not just the end result. While it’s often linked to academic success, love of learning extends far beyond the classroom.

Love of Learning in Action

Curious about how to boost my zest, I dove into books on character strengths, explored resources like the VIA Institute on Character’s website, and observed people who radiate zest—both in real life and on the screen. I even consulted my AI friend, Perplexity, for fresh ideas! After gathering inspiration, I started experimenting with different strategies and tracked how they affected my energy.

5 Ways to Activate Your Love of Learning

  1. Learn a New Dance: Watch tutorials or take a class, then teach the moves to a friend.
  2. Explore Languages: Pick a phrase like “hello” or “thank you” and learn to say it in as many languages as you can.
  3. Travel and Learn: Visit new places, blending education with adventure by exploring local culture and history.
  4. Deep Dive into a Topic: Choose a subject that fascinates you and dig deeper.
  5. Museum Adventures: Check out a new museum and share your discoveries with friends or family.

The “Zest” Strength

Zest involves approaching life with excitement, energy, and enthusiasm, fully engaging in activities rather than doing them halfheartedly. People high in zest feel activated and alive, using their energy to the fullest degree.

My Zest Quest: What Worked

Here’s what made a difference for me:

  • Start with Excitement: Each morning, I asked myself what I was looking forward to. If nothing came to mind, I found a way to add a little fun.
  • Move Your Body: I committed to at least one energizing activity every day—walking, yoga, or weight training—and added movement breaks like dancing, stretching, or running up and down the stairs.
  • Connect with Positive People: I sought out energizing collaborators for work projects.
  • Take Playful Breaks: Every afternoon, I paused for something fun—watching a comedy clip, chatting with a friend, or diving into a good book.
  • Prioritize Rest: Quality sleep became non-negotiable.

These simple shifts noticeably boosted my energy, enthusiasm, and overall zest for life!

5 Ways to Spark Zest

  1. Get Outside: Soak in the sights and sounds of nature.
  2. Be Active: Do a physical activity you love.
  3. Use Your Strengths in New Ways: Find new ways to flex your top character strengths.
  4. Turn Up the Music: Listen to upbeat tunes and sing or dance along.
  5. Stimulate Your Senses: Try minty lip balm, splash your face with cold water, or inhale an energizing scent like citrus or spearmint.

This Week’s Strength Challenge

I’d love to hear from you! Comment and tell me:

  • What do you love to learn?
  • How will you bring more zest 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.

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.