Stand Tall & Own It

In our last episode, I was joined by certified Enneagram coach and experiential specialist, Jackie Brewster, we dove into the transformative power of the Enneagram in both personal and professional spheres.In this installment, I'll be opening up about how the interpersonal dynamics of the Enneagram have played a pivotal role in my journey of healing within personal relationships, marriage, and family dynamics. I'll explore how understanding one's own motivations through the Enneagram sheds light on core values, validating and enriching them. Additionally, I point out how this wisdom challenges ingrained assumptions, beliefs, and conditioning – the ABC's of our psyche.It’s time to Stand Tall & Own your unique and beautiful expression through the language of the Enneagram.Mentioned In This Episode:The Road Back to You: An Enneagram Journey to Self-DiscoveryThe Path Between Us: An Enneagram JourneyLearn more here: Get involved! What Is Intentional Optimism?Core Values ExerciseCheck us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/JyoIkJGV5bI For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at andrea@theintentionaloptimist.com. Please leave us a rating and review!Apple: just scroll to the bottom, choose a rating and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762 Support the show

In this episode, we dig into the transformative world of the Enneagram with certified coach and experiential specialist, Jackie Brewster. Join us as Jackie shares her expertise in helping individuals, teams, and organizations navigate the complexities of life and work through the lens of the Enneagram.Discover how understanding and utilizing Enneagram insights can empower you to overcome feelings of being overwhelmed and unlock your true potential. Jackie's passion for guiding people towards self-discovery and growth shines through as she reveals the profound impact the Enneagram can have on personal and professional development.Whether you're seeking clarity in your personal life or striving for success in your corporate role, this episode offers invaluable insights and practical strategies to help you Stand Tall & Own It. Tune in and embark on a journey towards greater self-awareness, authenticity, and fulfillment.Mentioned in the Episode:The Wisdom of The EnneagramThe Complete Enneagram, Beatrice ChestnutThe Nine Types of Leadership, Beatrice ChestnutLearn more here: Get involved! What Is Intentional Optimism?Core Values ExerciseCore Values CourseCheck us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/tRtq3R8j-ck Please leave us a rating and review!Apple: just scroll to the bottom, choose a rating and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762  Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

In our last episode, we looked at the transformative power of understanding your strengths and talents in yet another tool I love, CliftonStrengths. My former coach, Allegra Stein walked us through how it can easily be integrated into your own leadership and personal development.In this episode, I’m reflecting and sharing how CliftonStrengths paved the way for my own entrepreneurial endeavors. Embracing my top five strengths—Connectedness, Strategic, Relator, Activator, and Maximizer—I'll talk about how validation, both internal and external, fueled my journey.Let's uncover how these strengths can act as game-changers in personal and professional growth, helping you move beyond self-criticism and tap into your talents with purpose and clarity. Is CliftonStrengths a tool for you?Let’s Stand Tall & Own our Strengths!Learn more here: Get involved! What Is Intentional Optimism?Core Values ExerciseCliftonStrengthsCheck us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/b8mGom-b9cY For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at andrea@theintentionaloptimist.com. Please leave us a rating and review!Apple: just scroll to the bottom, choose a rating and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762  Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

In this episode, we delve into the transformative power of CliftonStrengths, an assessment designed by Don Clifton to reveal your unique strengths DNA. Join us as we uncover how understanding and leveraging your CliftonStrengths can lead to greater engagement, productivity, and overall well-being.Our special guest, Allegra Stein, brings a wealth of experience and insight to the conversation. With a career spanning the Peace Corps, Teach for America, and over 12 years of coaching and mentoring practice, Allegra is a certified YouMap Certification Trainer, and has worked with the Strengthsfinder tool as part of a holistic approach to coaching. Whether you're seeking personal growth or aiming to empower your team, CliftonStrengths provides a roadmap to unlocking your full potential. Tune in for actionable insights, that will help you harness your innate talents and thrive in every aspect of your life.Learn more here: Get involved! What Is Intentional Optimism?Core Values ExerciseCore Values CourseCheck us out on YouTube:  https://youtu.be/8d9TRmak_04 Please leave us a rating and review!Apple: just scroll to the bottom, choose a rating and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762  Skillshare: Spark your creativity. Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

In our last episode, we delved into the transformative power of the Working Genius tool with Charity Medina, a seasoned Organizational Health Consultant and Certified Working Genius Facilitator. Now, join us as we journey deeper into the realms of personal and professional growth.In this episode, I’m sharing how I use “Working Genius” in my life and business. Spoiler alert - one of my BIGGEST takeaways is the reminder that I can DITCH THE SHAME that comes with my Working Frustrations.Discover how your Core Values influence your approach to tasks and processes, and uncover the hidden barriers lurking in your ABC’s (Assumptions, Beliefs, and Conditioning) that might be hindering you from unleashing your true zones of Genius!It’s time to Stand Tall and ignite your potential as you learn how to leverage your strengths and navigate through challenges. Tune in now as we embark on this empowering quest to turn frustration into triumph!Learn more here: Get involved! What Is Intentional Optimism?Core Values ExerciseCheck us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Q2jrHAkiZss For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at andrea@theintentionaloptimist.com. Please leave us a rating and review!Apple: just scroll to the bottom, choose a rating and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762 Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

In this episode, we're diving deep into the fascinating world of Working Genius with none other than Charity Medina. As an accomplished Operations and HR leader, Charity brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table.Join us as we explore Patrick Lencioni's transformative framework, uncovering the six different types of talents that are essential for success in any endeavor. From identifying our areas of Working Genius that bring us joy and passion to recognizing our Working Frustrations that drain our energy, Charity provides invaluable insights into understanding and harnessing our unique strengths.Through engaging conversation and practical advice, Charity shares her expertise as a Certified Working Genius Facilitator, offering guidance on how to thrive in your everyday work by operating within your zones of Genius. Whether you're an individual looking to optimize your performance or an organization seeking to cultivate a culture of productivity and well-being, this episode is packed with actionable strategies for personal and professional growth.Don't miss out on this enlightening discussion as we unveil the secrets to unlocking your Working Genius with Charity Medina. Email Charity at: charity@charitymedina.com and include “Stand Tall” in the subject line, to receive a FREE assessment and debrief! Learn more here: Get involved! What Is Intentional Optimism?Core Values ExerciseCore Values CourseCheck us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/e-qZI94cH8gPlease leave us a rating and review!Apple: just scroll to the bottom, choose a rating and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762  Support the show

Join me in this episode as we explore the transformative power of the DISC assessment tool in leadership coaching. DISC is the tool I use most often with my clients, and I'm using powerful examples from my own DISC profile to illustrate its impact. We'll delve into understanding the dynamics of Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Compliance (DISC) and how it can unlock your leadership potential. From uncovering your own leadership style to navigating team dynamics, we look at practical strategies and real-world examples. Whether you're a seasoned executive or aspiring leader, this episode offers invaluable insights to elevate your leadership journey. Tune in and discover the untapped potential understanding DISC will have in your leadership.Let’s Stand Tall and Own it.Learn more here: Get involved! DISC Cheat Sheet DISC ServicesWhat Is Intentional Optimism?Core Values ExerciseCheck us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dy_UMoomQSE For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at andrea@theintentionaloptimist.com. Please leave us a rating and review!Apple: just scroll to the bottom, choose a rating and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

In this enlightening episode, we delve into the fascinating world of DISC profiles with none other than Deb Ingino, a trailblazer within the world renowned Maxwell Leadership Team. Deb, instrumental in bringing DISC methodology to the forefront of leadership development, shares invaluable insights gleaned from her extensive experience.Discover how understanding your DISC profile can unlock profound self-awareness and empower you to become a more effective leader. From recognizing your unique strengths to navigating interpersonal dynamics with finesse, Deb offers practical strategies and real-world examples to help you harness the power of DISC in both personal and professional contexts.Tune in to gain exclusive access to Deb's expertise and uncover the transformative potential of embracing your DISC profile. Whether you're a seasoned leader or aspiring to enhance your leadership skills, this episode promises to be a game-changer on your journey towards growth and success.Let’s Stand Tall and Own it.Learn more here: Get involved! DISC Cheat Sheet What Is Intentional Optimism?Core Values ExerciseCore Values CourseCheck us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/PKeVYkHsh_E For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at andrea@theintentionaloptimist.com. Please leave us a rating and review!Apple: just scroll to the bottom, choose a rating and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762  Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

If there was one thing I would tell my 25 year old self, it would be “Andrea, you have permission to make your own choices and decisions… Basically, to think for yourself.” In this week’s episode, we walk through the deceptively simple concept of how to give yourself permission - in any area. How many times have you said (this week) “I can’t?” Well, what if you actually could? Permission granted. Now what?Let’s Stand Tall and Own it.Learn more here: Get involved! What Is Intentional Optimism?Core Values ExerciseCore Values CourseCheck us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/eMw4dTGJ8ZQ For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at andrea@theintentionaloptimist.com. Please leave us a rating and review!Apple: just scroll to the bottom, choose a rating and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762 Support the show

Deconstruction is a HOT topic right now - especially for the faith community. But here’s the thing… it’s not as big of a deal as people are making it out to be. In this episode, I give you a simple definition, share ways in which you are probably already DOING deconstruction, a few (of the many) clear benefits of it, and then some “bottom line” truths and expectations you can walk away and apply - today.Time to Stand Tall and Own it.Learn more here: Get involved! What Is Intentional Optimism?Core Values ExerciseCore Values CourseCheck us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Zw9itT-3Zhk For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at andrea@theintentionaloptimist.com.Please leave us a rating and review!Apple: just scroll to the bottom, choose a rating and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762  Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Are you dissatisfied, unfulfilled or disempowered in your work? Have you tried “all the things,” followed all the rules, and still aren’t where you want to be? Are you frustrated with constantly defending your personal boundaries, or struggling to make important decisions? In this episode, I (finally!) share the magic of understanding your Core Values!No more guessing - with a clear definition, simple explanation and actional tips on how to move forward uncovering your own Core Values, this episode is one of the most valuable resources I’ve shared, to date!Learn more here: Get involved! What Is Intentional Optimism?Core Values ExerciseCore Values CourseCheck us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/be1mOMUWs4wFor a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at andrea@theintentionaloptimist.com.Please leave us a rating and review!Apple: just scroll to the bottom, choose a rating and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762  Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Do you set resolutions? Do you keep them? What about goals? What if all you needed in order to achieve your goals for 2024 was to understand your values and set some intentions? In this episode you’ll learn the importance of knowing you and how you function, then tailoring your “goals” to help you thrive. For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at andrea@theintentionaloptimist.com. I’d love to hear how you will embrace this challenge in 2024.Episodes & Resources Mentioned:The Ultimate DISC Cheat SheetA Quick & Easy Guide to Personal BoundariesSelf-Awareness: Uncovering Assumptions, Beliefs & Conditioning for Personal GrowthEpisode 116: BONUS:  Core Values -  A Conversation with Tabatha PerryEpisode 10: DISC - What I love (the basics)Episode 11: DISC Among Friends - with Kim Pate & Andrea JohnsonLearn more here: Get involved! What Is Intentional Optimism?Core Values ExerciseCore Values CourseCheck us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/i7s7jB6EOtEPlease leave us a rating and review!Apple: just scroll to the bottom, choose a rating and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762  Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

2024 is here!Have you taken time to set intentions, make resolutions or set goals? There’s one goal every leader needs in 2024: to become curious about their own perspectives. Where do they come from? What forms them?What are they concealing? What do they say about us?If you, as a leader, cannot change your perspective, you will have a hard time growing.If you aren’t growing, you’re going to have a hard time leading.Begin 2024 with an honest look at how you can be a better leader by challenging your own perspectives and understanding the perspectives of others.For a deeper discussion, DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at andrea@theintentionaloptimist.com. I’d love to hear how you will embrace this challenge in 2024.Your journey to personal fulfillment starts here, and if you’re local to Central Virginia, you can kick off the year with the Live2Lead Charlottesville 2024 conference on Monday, January 15, 2024. Learn more here: Get involved! What Is Intentional Optimism?Core Values ExerciseCore Values CourseCheck us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/w2bTrbv2tHk Please leave us a rating and review!Apple: just scroll to the bottom, choose a rating and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762  Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Merry Christmas, my friend! In this is the last episode of 2023, I want to leave you with a little encouragement, and a vision for 2024. “Stand Tall and Own It” means we don’t hide who we are - from ourselves or others. We share our wisdom, our opinions and our boundaries - all with grace and kindness. In this episode, I share some topics we’ll tackle in 2024. The goal is to equip you with the tools you need to embrace your unique leadership potential. Courageously diving into more details on critical thinking, faith deconstruction, mental health and the grief associated with all of that, will help you stand tall, own your power, and make a significant impact in your life and community. If I’ve missed one, or you have something you’d love to discuss, please DM me @theintentionaloptimist (IG or LI) or email me at andrea@theintentionaloptimist.com. I’d love to hear from you.Your journey to personal fulfillment starts here, and if you’re local to Central Virginia, you can kick off the year with the Live2Lead Charlottesville 2024 conference on Monday, January 15, 2024. Learn more here: Get involved! What Is Intentional Optimism?Core Values ExerciseCore Values CourseCheck us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-2n2pH9HP-I Please leave us a rating and review!Apple: just scroll to the bottom, choose a rating and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762 Skillshare: Spark your creativity. Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

How do you slow down long enough to catch your breath and still have time to enjoy the holidays?In this fifth, and final, installment of the “how to deal with holiday stress” mini series, I share my personal thoughts on how it is important to take your foot off the gas pedal, come to a full stop, and take a look in the rearview mirror to see what the road behind you looks like, in order to determine your course moving forward. “Getting quiet” is unique to you, but I share practical examples of how it looks and works for me. Decompressing and recharging are two sides to the same coin, but being intentional about both truly makes a difference.The Rhythms of Reflection - June 6, 2022Clever Fox Weekly PlannerJournal DM me on IG or LinkedIn = @theintentionaloptimist Learn more here: Get involved! What Is Intentional Optimism?Core Values ExerciseCore Values CourseCheck us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/U5tjzP9On70 Please leave us a rating and review!Apple: just scroll to the bottom, choose a rating and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762  Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

It seems like EVERYONE is talking about “boundaries” these days. With online relationships and information sharing “24/7,” we’ve had to learn all over again, what it means to have “personal space.” In this fourth installment of the “how to deal with holiday stress” mini-series, I demystify the whole conversation. Just like you can’t arbitrarily draw your own property lines around your house, randomly drawn personal boundary lines are not easy to defend, and don’t often make sense. In this episode you’ll learn:What personal boundaries are - your own internal guidelinesWhere they come from - your Core Values How they benefit you - emotional resilience, improved relationships, lower stressThe best method of determining and setting them - know you, and your Core ValuesThe most effective ways to maintain them Honor your Core ValuesDevelop self-respect and trustUnderstand their self-reinforcing nature - your boundaries increase your autonomy and confidence, allowing you to maintain them more consistently.Review and evaluate - regularly to see where there are breaches, or leaksShore them up, by revisiting your Core Values, your beliefs, and your goalsHealthy Boundaries Make Happy Holidays Masterclasshttps://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/healthyboundaries Make THIS holiday season happy with different expectations, AND joyful anticipation! Healthy boundaries based on your core values allows for conscientious and respectful boundary setting for a holiday season YOU decide you want to experience.DM me on IG or LinkedIn = @theintentionaloptimist Learn more here: Get involved! Healthy Boundaries Make Happy Holidays MasterclassWhat Is Intentional Optimism?Core Values ExerciseCore Values CourseCheck us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0npFBjpyHygPlease leave us a rating and review!Apple: just scroll to the bottom, choose a rating and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762 Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

In the ever-evolving world of fashion, navigating the maze of style and self-perception can be challenging. This is especially true for those grappling with body image issues. I originally interviewed Melanie Lippman back in Episode 129 (link below), and LOVE how her Q&A session fits perfectly into our “holiday stress” mini-series!  Tune in to hear how learning to trust herself is still one of the biggest challenges (IKYK), and how it can make a real difference in how you show up. Ready for a quick shot of confidence as you gear up to dress up for all your holiday get-togethers? This EXTRA! Guest Q&A is just for you!DM me on IG or LinkedIn = @theintentionaloptimist Learn more here: Get involved! Healthy Boundaries Make Happy Holidays MasterclassWhat Is Intentional Optimism?Core Values ExerciseCore Values CourseCheck us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xjDwA3LUzDc Episode 129: Unlocking Your Style ConfidenceWhere to find Melanie:Website:  Melanie LippmanInstagram:  @melanielippmanLinkedIn:  Melanie LippmanSPECIAL PROMOTION - http://bit.ly/5outfitmistakesPlease leave us a rating and review!Apple: just scroll to the bottom, choose a rating and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762 Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

The “holiday” food onslaught begins on October 31, and doesn’t relent until Easter. There really isn’t any way to avoid it. In this third installment of the “how to deal with holiday stress” mini-series, we dig into the whole food dilemma, and how it affects, or is related to, body image. There’s no way around the fact that food is a huge part of most of the holidays, and I wish I had a magic solution to loving yourself through this season of sugar and sauces… but the reality is that it’s most important to understand the beauty of your own body, and how you can care for yourself.  That’s the secret to making through the “food half” of the year. Below are the 10 action steps I mentioned in the episode that will empower and encourage you this holiday season. 10 Ways to Feel Good…:1.  Reframe your holiday expectations:      a.  Go back (if you haven’t yet) to the last two episodes, and look at what your expectations are, and what kind of family stress (or conditioning) you might be dealing with.     b.   What are the holidays for? You get to decide.      c.   Why are you eating? You get to decide.     d.   What am I supposed to look like? What do I make that mean?     e.  Where could I spend my energy instead?2.  Build a body gratitude list: how long has she been around? Is she strong? What is unique about her? How has she protected you?3.  If you want something special, purchase it or make it yourself. (Chocolate Orange)4.  Allow yourself some treats - no one does well with super strict lines… we cross them.5.  Decide what you want to eat (or not) and communicate it when you have the opportunity to influence the menu (like acorn squash).6.  Look for OTHER ways to enjoy the season - like the leaves this weekend, light tours, hiking, holiday markets.7.  Get you some clothes that do fit - and flatter your body as it is TODAY. 8.  Get rid of the clothes that will never fit - I plan on participating in a holiday clothes swap meet. I’ve never done it before, but I have some lovely things with tags on them… time to find something new.9.  Volunteer - food pantry, holiday meal soup kitchen - get out of your own head10. Healthy Boundaries Make Happy Holidays Masterclass https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/healthyboundaries  Make THIS holiday season happy with different expectations, AND joyful anticipation! Healthy boundaries based on your core values allows for conscientious and respectful boundary setting for a holiday season YOU decide you want to experience.DM me on IG or LinkedIn = @theintentionaloptimist Learn more here: Get involved! Healthy Boundaries Make Happy Holidays MasterclassWhat Is Intentional Optimism?Core Values ExerciseCore Values CourseCheck us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/2cAG_KkfFlA Please leave us a rating and review!Apple: just scroll to the bottom, choose a rating and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762  Support the show

The festive season rolls around, and instead of joy and laughter, you're filled with dread at the thought of navigating family gatherings. Whenever families gather, with multiple expectations, traditions - even trauma - stress is on the menu.In this second installment of the “how to deal with holiday stress” mini-series, I share my insights, tips and strategies for navigating multiple types of holiday family stress. Want to make your holiday season smoother? This one's for you. Take a listen, and be encouraged… you have choices, my friend.Stand tall and let's navigate this holiday season together.Tips & strategies for dealing with the stress:GRACE: Remember, there are truly very few people who WANT to ruin anyone else’s special occasion. Especially a holiday. We all need a little grace.Truly examine and (maybe) change your expectations - then look at how you can make different choices next year.Have the “players” changed? (mom…)Have the circumstances changed? (money…)Examine and explore your own ABC’sAssumptions - look at your assumptions for yourself and for othersBeliefs - have they changed? Do they need to change? Conditioning - Examine your “supposed to…” statements for a specific holiday. Feel like? Look like? Duration?Represent?Gift yourself some counseling or coachingHealthy Boundaries Make Happy Holidays Masterclass https://www.theintentionaloptimist.com/healthyboundaries  Make THIS holiday season happy with different expectations, AND joyful anticipation! Healthy boundaries based on your core values allows for conscientious and respectful boundary setting for a holiday season YOU decide you want to experience.Things to do instead of the traditional celebration:“Friendsgiving”  - Beth Felker Jones email/article“I love that the celebration of “Friendsgiving” has been gaining steady ground. We need friends. Most of us could stand to de-center the nuclear family and open up doors to more friends.”Travelmaybe not on “the busiest travel day of the year…” but where might you want to go?Christmas in as many cultures as I can…Create your own traditions - especially if you have children. Redefine your ABC’s, Expectations, Core Values, BoundariesRedefine who does what?Redefine where, and why you celebrate?Try out holidays from other culturesDM me on IG or LinkedIn = @theintentionaloptimist Learn more here: Get involved! Healthy Boundaries Make Happy Holidays MasterclassWhat Is Intentional Optimism?Core Values ExerciseCore Values CourseCheck us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/JboLos8zVQYPlease leave us a rating and review!Apple: just scroll to the bottom, choose a rating and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Avoiding resentment and disappointment is something I’m always interested in.  But where do those things come from? Expectations.If there’s one thing I’ve learned in life, it’s that expectations can make or break you. They can be the biggest source of resentment and disappointment, or the greatest asset in your communication toolbox. When you’re willing to examine, understand, identify and communicate your expectations - for you and others - relationships are strengthened, stress is reduced, and we flourish.DM me on IG or LinkedIn = @theintentionaloptimist Learn more here: Get involved! What Is Intentional Optimism?Core Values ExerciseCore Values CourseCheck us out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dIDljnhmrHMPlease leave us a rating and review!Apple: just scroll to the bottom, choose a rating and write a review.Podchaser (Android): you can go to this link here and leave a rating and review! https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/intentional-optimists-unconven-1406762  Skillshare: Spark your creativity.Get 40% Off Annual MembershipDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show