THE GLIMMER PRINCIPLE MAHA Fall Conference Presented By: Mary Kay Slowikowski

The Elements of Well Being Positive Emotions/Meaning Accomplishments Engagement Relationships 2

Signature Strengths Sense of ownership and authenticity Feeling of excitement by displaying it Sense of yearning to find new ways to use it Invigoration rather than exhaustion while using the strength 3

Exercise: Create a New Way for Using Strength  Creativity  Hope/Optimism  Self Control  Appreciation of Beauty & Excellence 4

The Glimmer Principle  Ask Stupid Questions  Jump Fences  Make Hope Visible  Go Deep  Embrace Constraints 5

Choose the Thinking Life  Think First  Pay Attention  Reduce Trivial Distractions  Invest Time in Reflection 6

Choose the Thinking Life (continued) Think First Find time to think What are the main obstacles you encounter? List benefits that increasing your thinking time will bring you. Pay Attention Keeps you safe Helps you achieve your goal Makes other people feel validated Makes you more productive 7

Choose the Thinking Life (continued) Reduce Trivial Distractions Free your environment from the threats to your self control. Test your fortitude. A written resolution Meaningful Leisure. Intellectual Stimulation. Physical Movement. Invest Time in Reflection Do you enjoy engaging in reflection? Why/Why not? Do you learn more from your own mistakes or the mistakes of others? What have you learned recently from your own/others mistakes? 8

Be Proactive  Make it part of your Identity  Acquire a Reputation as a Problem-Solver  Will Power strengthens your ability to be prepared 9

Janssen’s Model of Change ComfortRenewal DenialConfusion 10

Best Decisions  What are the 2 most important decisions you’ve made in the past? How did they change your life?  List 2 important decisions you have to make in the future. What are the possible repercussions on your life?  Write down your next important decision. Imagine making it and not making it. What are the consequences of each action? 11

Facilitate Your Discernment Active Reflection  Read scripture. Listen to your heart. Journal your thoughts. Gather Data  What information do I need to know to come to a peaceful conclusion. Pay Attention to Body & Feeling  Do I have a basic feeling of peace and security?  Consolation: Leaves me with a “fits like a glove” feeling.  Desolation: Leaves me disquieted and agitated. Accept the Moment You Know  It will feel as though you are acknowledging a decision that has already been agreed upon by your heart and God. 12