3 Powerful Approaches to Personal Growth
In my journey to be an agent of positive transformation for myself, those I serve, and the greater collective, I have learned about and practiced 3 very powerful paradigms that invite change-makers to embrace a more positive, strengths-based approach focused on building on what is working to bring about the changes they seek instead of the often disheartening focus on problems and what’s not working.
These three powerful approaches evoke a sense of optimism, possibility, resilience, and they stand out for their emphasis on positivity, growth, and empowerment. These three approaches are Appreciative Inquiry (AI), Strengths-Based Coaching, and Positive Psychology. At their core, these methodologies share a common belief in leveraging strengths and fostering optimism to facilitate meaningful change and achieve desired outcomes. I’ll share a bit about each here.
I first heard of Appreciative Inquiry in 2010 in my Conflict Resolution class when I was getting a Masters in Peace and Justice Studies at the University of San Diego. In a field that can be traumatizing to even study let alone work in, Appreciate Inquiry came as a breath of much needed hope and optimism for me. It is a transformative approach that focuses on exploring and amplifying the positive aspects of individuals, teams, and organizations.
Rather than focusing solely on problems or deficits, it encourages inquiry into past successes, strengths, and values, thereby inspiring a shared vision for the future. By shifting the focus from what's wrong to what's right, Appreciative Inquiry creates a fertile ground for innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth. It’s not that problems or issues are ignored but that strengths and successes are leveraged to resolve existing challenges.
In 2017, I heard about Strengths-Based Coaching from a dear friend, and I loved it so much that I trained as a Strengths-Based Coach the following year. This approach to coaching centers on identifying and maximizing an individual's unique strengths, talents, and capabilities. Rather than attempting to fix weaknesses, it encourages clients to build upon their existing strengths to achieve their goals and overcome challenges. By fostering self-awareness, confidence, and resilience, strengths-based coaching empowers individuals to unlock their full potential, feel better about themselves, and lead more fulfilling lives.
I first heard of the field of Positive Psychology in 2005 when I read the book Authentic Happiness by Martin Seligman. At the time, I was enthralled with the ideas presented in the book but was not able to fully comprehend or embody them. Years later, after being farther down my journey of healing and growth, I started reading more in the field of Positive Psychology, which seeks to understand and promote human flourishing by studying the factors that contribute to happiness, well-being, and optimal functioning. Through simple yet powerful practices such as gratitude, mindfulness, and positive reframing, positive psychology helps individuals cultivate a positive mindset, manage stress, and enhance overall life satisfaction. By focusing on strengths, virtues, and positive emotions, this approach offers an uplifting roadmap for personal growth and resilience in the face of adversity.
I am very grateful to have studied Appreciative Inquiry, Strengths-Based Coaching, and Positive Psychology as the three methodologies form a powerful toolkit for personal growth and spiritual development. By embracing a strengths-based, solution-focused mindset, these approaches teach us to appreciate what’s right with us and the world, to develop our innate potential, cultivate resilience, and navigate life's challenges with confidence and optimism. I use these approaches in my own growth and in supporting my clients on their journeys.
I love these approaches because they offer a transformative path towards greater well-being, success, and fulfillment. As we embark or continue on our journeys of self-discovery and growth, let us embrace the power of positivity and possibility inherent in each one of us and in these transformative methodologies. One very simple and easy way to do this is to daily ask oneself the question, “What’s Going Well?” Answering that simple question again and again can powerfully transform one’s mindset and capacity to see possibilities in the face of problems.