Sources of Strength is a way for us to connect with you through eight different strengths that we all have and use at different seasons of our lives. The following strengths have been identified by the Sources of Strength organization and intentionally taught to youth in schools, Native American tribes, communities & faith-based organizations around the nation and across the world for 20+ years.
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Sources of Strength
Whether related to us by blood, or by choice, these are the people who support, nurture, and care for us.
Positive friends lift us up, make us laugh, are honest with us, and are there for us when we need them.
A Mentor is an experienced person who shares their insight to help guide us, and help us draw on our own strengths to be the best version of ourselves.
When we feel stressed, Healthy Activities – whether they are social, physical, or emotional – help us unwind, lift our mood, and gain clarity.
Generosity can look a lot of different ways, from donating money or time, to being intentionally kind to other people. These acts of kindness towards others, big or small, can make an impact on how we feel about ourselves.
Spirituality is practiced in many ways, but at it’s core we consider what gives us a sense of purpose and connection in our spirit. Thankfulness is a profound way to practice Spirituality together no matter what our cultural heritage and/or spiritual tradition.
When we are injured, we don’t have to stay in pain. We can get better with access to the medical care we need and deserve. Physical and social/emotional pain are often intergrated and it’s important to take care of our bodies, hearts, and minds.
Mental Health is all about getting the support we need and deserve to help us when we are struggling. Our mental health is a very important part of living a healthy life, and oftentimes, getting together with a trusted person, a counselor, or a doctor can help empower us to overcome internal struggles we might be facing.
Here are some ways you can be intentional about using your strengths muscles.
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Additional Resources
Downloadable Worksheets
Downloadable Coloring Pages
Brené Brown
“Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing we’ll ever do.”
Brené Brown has spent the past two decades studying courage, vulnerability, shame, and empathy. She's the author of five #1 New York Times bestsellers: The Gifts of Imperfection, Daring Greatly, Rising Strong, Braving the Wilderness, and Dare to Lead. Podcasts » Videos »
The power of vulnerability: Brené Brown
Brené Brown studies human connection — our ability to empathize, belong, love. In a poignant, funny talk at TEDxHouston, she shares a deep insight from her research, one that sent her on a personal quest to know herself as well as to understand humanity.
Listening to shame: Brené Brown
Shame is an unspoken epidemic, the secret behind many forms of broken behavior. Brené Brown, whose earlier talk on vulnerability became a viral hit, explores what can happen when people confront their shame head-on. Her own humor, humanity and vulnerability shine through every word.