Engaging Positive Education Skills in Challenging Times

Justin Robinson, the Director of the Positive Education Institute, points out in an article how engaging aspects of Positive Education in our lives is not only about thriving. They are also about “equipping people with tools” to deal with difficult times.

Justin lists eight examples of integral skills to Positive Education that apply in handling difficult and challenging times:

• The character strength of effective Teamwork. Engaging respectfully with others through listening, inquiring, leading and supporting can result in an increased sense of belonging and coordinated actions that are greater than the sum of the individual efforts.
• The proficiency of Emotional Literacy. Harnessing the skills of emotional intelligence allows families and communities to effectively communicate how they are feeling and how they might move forward together. Accepting negative emotions as normal in these times can also be helpful to young people.
• The power of Acceptance and Action. Identifying factors within and beyond one’s control can foster resilience and promote healthy future orientated actions.
• The skill of engaging one’s Signature Strengths. Given that our signature strengths are essential to who we are, and that we are energized by using them, it can be helpful to draw on these qualities in difficult times to help light up possible pathways forward.
• The ability to effectively Seek Help. Recognising times, now and in the future, when we can ask for support from others provides us with additional resources, normalizes the help-seeking behavior and provides opportunities for others to feel helpful.
• The intentionality of performing and receiving Deliberate Acts of Kindness. Thinking of others, making a positive contribution through words and/or actions help instill hope and love in both the receiver and the giver.
• The capacity to spot Character Strengths in Action. Whether looking out for actions of Humanity, which include the strengths of kindness, love and social intelligence, or whether looking out for actions of Courage, Wisdom or Transcendence can assist us to accentuate the positive in trying times.
• The clarity of staying true to one’s Core Values. Remembering and revisiting core values can help guide behavior and help us feel grounded in times of uncertainty.