How can you use positive psychology to improve your coachees' well-being?

I use both VIA and StrengthsFinder in my work. I believe in a strengths approach to coaching and I believe that noticing a client's positive emotions help them assimilate what they are learning. A client I worked with a few years ago, was reluctant to take the VIA assessment. When she finally did and we looked at her top 5 strengths, she looked at me and said, "Those aren't strengths, that's just me!" At that moment, it was clear to me, that people often don't know and don't see their strengths. What this means to me is people don't have access to strengths until they are introduced to them. This client went on to use those strengths more often and to use them purposefully in difficult situations. There was no stopping her after that!

What I've learned about growth and fixed mindsets is that we have both at different times and in different areas. A person can have a growth mindset around a skill they are developing and have a fixed mindset around a relationship that isn't going well - ever talk and listen to someone who rubbed you the wrong way once and find they are a much different person than you thought -- potential to move from a fixed to a growth mindset about that relationship. Uncovering a fixed mindset through listening for limiting beliefs is one way to generate awareness in your clients -- and add to their learning. Recognizing and acknowledging their learning through failure or accepting of challenges can support their continued growth mindset in that area!

Research by Neff (2003) reported self-compassion to be significantly correlated with positive mental health and wellbeing, including reduced depression and anxiety. Coaches, teachers and parents should promote reflection of feelings and emotional reactions prior to and after stressful situations. Also, encourage team/class discussion regarding this to address common humanity.