Strengths
God has made and gifted every student uniquely.
Our Mental Fitness Program is designed to have a positive focus on building resilience that is centred on God as our foundation with our minds set on things above (Colossians 3:2). God calls us to be joyful in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). This is something that requires a trust in God as he actively works in us to love and serve him.
God has placed us in a community where being able to serve with the gifts and strengths God has given us can be a fantastic blessing to others. That is why we focus on 'strengths' as part of our Mental Fitness Program.
If the whole body were an eye, how could it hear? If the whole body were an ear, how could it smell? God has placed each part in the body just as he wanted it to be. If all the parts were the same, how could there be a body? As it is, there are many parts. But there is only one body.1 Corinthians 12:17-20
What are strengths?
Every single one of us has strengths that we use on a regular basis to overcome obstacles and achieve our goals. These character strengths are an important part of your personality and have many benefits.
Research has shown that knowing and applying your character strengths can help buffer against mental illness and help us to be happier, more confident and resilient. It can also give us more energy, build self-esteem, and allow us to reach our goals.
5 tips for parents
- Let others know their strengths if you see it in them. If your son is kind, let him know. If your daughter has wonderful optimism, tell her. And remember these change and shift over time.
- In can often be hard to know what is considered a strength. In the early 2000's, psychologists were able to identify 24 strengths that we all have to varying degrees. Here is a place you can head to explore these further – The 24 Character Strengths.
- At dinner time, brainstorm the question why a particular strength is important and how you can use it? E.g. Why love others? How can we love others?
- Build your strengths by using them every day.
- With strength comes the opportunity to serve. Suggest to your children different ways to serve with the strength they have.