What’s jazzing me about strengths as an important topic within resilience? It traces back to my childhood and teenage years when there was a strong emphasis on academic performance, particularly in high school. While we had the freedom to choose our subjects, there seemed to be a singular standard for what defined a successful student, often centered around excelling in science and advanced mathematics.

Transitioning to my mid-career, I immersed myself in academia and later became a practitioner in disaster management. While the work was exhilarating, it proved to be demanding and energy-draining. Eventually, I experienced burnout, attributed not only to professional pressures but also to personal challenges, such as becoming a single mother while living abroad.

Returning to my home country to continue my work remotely, I discovered that burnout could persist even in remote environments. Confronting this reality led me to reflect on the need for a change. It was during this period that I stumbled upon a podcast episode discussing strengths, which resonated deeply with me.

Prior to experiencing burnout, a friend introduced me to the concept of PERMA, a well-being framework, which ignited a desire within me to thrive holistically rather than merely survive. This newfound perspective prompted me to explore the concept of strengths more deeply.

Understanding and leveraging one’s strengths to navigate professional and personal realms became a source of empowerment for me. Embracing strengths not only fosters self-awareness but also facilitates connections with like-minded individuals. It’s a graceful acknowledgment of our individuality and a rejection of one-size-fits-all standards.

In conclusion, the concept of strengths has empowered and enriched my journey, offering a pathway to fulfillment and resilience.