In episode #177 of the Demystifying Mental Toughness Podcast, Lisa Avery, a positive psychology practitioner talks to me about how to help young people flourish using a positive psychology approach.  In our conversation we focus on a measure of mental toughness, life control, which links to having a “can do” attitude towards life.  We discuss identifying and cultivating positive emotions, character strengths, and virtues that contribute towards a feel good factor and overcoming our negativity bias as well as a lot more.

Key Learning Points:

• Arguably, here in the UK we are behind countries like the USA and Australia in our use of positive psychology approaches when supporting young people.
• We all have a negativity bias in our brains where we are quick to notice the bad stuff not the good.
• In order to get to the point of being comfortable in your own skin, and valuing yourself and your personality traits, you've got to know who you are.
• In schools and colleges the starting point is always to work with the staff, usually the senior leadership team.
• Dr. Susan David speaks about the fact that if you know what your values are, every time you need to make a decision.  You should simply ask yourself, “is what I'm about to say or do going to take me closer or further away from where I want to be?”.
• The central framework to positive psychology comes from Dr Martin Seligman’s work. He says that in order to thrive, human beings need positive emotions, a sense of engagement in their work and life, great relationships, a sense of meaning or purpose, and a sense of accomplishment.
• Abraham Maslow states “we either step forwards into growth or step back backwards into safety.”
• Do you focus on the strengths of your kids or their weaknesses? This questionnaire will help you. - https://www.leawaters.com/sbp-quiz

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5 Relevant Podcast Episodes

Ep134: David Charlton – Observations: 3 Things That Stop You Achieving Your Goals

Ep106: Amy Rowlinson – Why is knowing my WHY important?

Ep098: Jon Bartlett – Do You Know Your Why? 

Ep075: Grant Phyphers – How to Rebuild Your Identity

Ep021: Steve Hackney – How to Reach Your Full Potential

5 Valuable resources that can help you build a “can do” attitude

Blog: Make Better Decisions to Help Your Sport Performance a Values List   

Conversations with Kids – Values

Children and Youth Motivation for Sport Quiz for Children

Child and Youth Motivation Quiz for Parents

Performance Profile for Goalkeepers