Category: community

Shine your light

On By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, Hope, Love, Mindfulness, Peace50 Comments

bethelight

I used to think of life purpose as some great big grand scheme for life, something we spend our whole life chasing after. Daunting for sure. At times overwhelming.

Then one day I realized that life purpose was a series of small, fleeting events, rather than one great big span of life. Bite size in fact.

It’s the one thing we love doing, time and time again. Over and over. Day by day. It’s the one thing we love sharing. Moment to moment. Breath by breath.

RELATED POST:
Don't confuse purpose with occupation

What make’s your heart sing?

For me it’s making the person right in front of me (no matter who they are) feel like the most important person in the world.

Engaging fully, completely, in every conversation I have.

No matter how long. No matter how short.

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REFLECTION QUESTION:
What makes you come alive?

I love making someone’s day brighter.

  • Whether it be lifting the spirits of my psychology students.
  • Encouraging a barista at Starbucks.
  • Smiling at runners on the trail.
  • Leaving my sister an uplifting voicemail.
  • Opening the door for someone at the grocery store.
  • Listening intently to my husband at the end of a long day.

Mission for this Moment

My hope for today is to make you feel like the centre of my universe. One smile at a time. One conversation at time. If only for a moment. Sometimes for a lifetime.

Because you matter.

More than you’ll ever know.

Simple Soulful Practice

How I Light Up My Day

Sometimes we need a quick, fun, and easy way to elevate our mood. Suggestion: Angel Cards A simple, soulful practice that takes a (bite sized) moment. Now my friends ask me to bring angel cards to all our coffee talks. Even if we’re sitting 8 feet apart! These light-hearted cards guarantee a shift UP in conversation. From the mundane to the magical.

What lights your way today?

New Virtual Experiences During COVID-19

On By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, Coping Strategies, Health Psychology, Mental Health Education, Optimism, Personal Growth, Resilience, technology, Thriving, Training and Development, Video42 Comments

Staying Hopeful

I wanted to share how I have been keeping hope alive in my heart and soul during COVID-19.

Specifically, by expanding my reach with new virtual experiences.

Beginning in the spring with my first “live” recorded internet event with Sam Piercell, a fitness entrepreneur, from Windsor, Ontario.

F45 "Live" Event: 
Community Resilience with Dr. Andrea Dinardo

Resilience Habits & Routines

Community members asked stress, wellness, and psychology questions in real time.

Throughout the resilience seminar, I also shared daily habits and thought patterns keeping me healthy during the pandemic.

Optimism, hope, and humour are key factors in health, happiness, and resilience.

Optimism Bootcamp The Drive Magazine

Sharing Our COVID Experiences

Since then, I have been interviewed virtually by:

  1. Dr. Katherin Garland on Mental Health Matters (watch: video interview).
  2. Candace Sampson on What She Said Radio (watch: video interview).

We discussed situational and pandemic anxiety, health and positive psychology, time and energy management, social media boundaries, resilience, and thriving under pressure.

2020 “Stretch” Goals

  • GOAL: Stay Connected to each other in new and novel ways.
  • HOW: Interactive LIVE “Q & A” conversations in real time.
  • MEDIUM: ZOOM, INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK, YOUTUBE.

Adapting to the New Normal

In the past, online interactions were “an extra” to everyday conversation.

Now “the virtual life” is a necessity for both our personal and professional lives.

An important and crucial way to stay connected to both our dreams and each other.

2020 is the World’s Classroom

PSYCHOLOGY TEACHING ONLINE - BEHIND THE SCENES:
1. What It's Like to Be a Professor During Global Pandemic
2. "Live" Online Psychology Class

Hope and Change

“Adapt or Die” may sound harsh.

But adaptation is truly what’s being asked of us in every area of our lives right now.

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So I figure I might as well jump right in!

Because I would rather ride the wave, than have the wave ride me. 🌊

What’s Next? 

VIRTUAL KEYNOTE: Healthy Workplace Awards

Compassionate Listening

On By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, Emotional Awareness, empowerment, Hope, Mindfulness, Optimism, Peace, Social Psychology47 Comments

Even as a psychologist, I often don’t know what to say.

Especially now with so many people experiencing pain and trauma in escalating ways.

So rather than assume what someone needs, I have learned over the years to ask one simple question:

How Can I Support You?

Dr. Andrea Dinardo Empathic Listen

In doing so, I create a safe space for healing and acceptance.

Something we all need right now, more than ever before.

Unconditional love and support.

To be witnessed. To be heard.

All good conversation begins with listening.

Only then can we transformed by what we learn. 🌎💞

Video of Post ⇒ Click Here

Stay Open to the Possibilities

On By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, Hope, Intrinsic Motivation, Optimism, personality, Psychology Class, Thriving27 Comments

Embrace Uncertainty

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One of my favourite ways to energize before teaching psychology classes at St. Clair College is to summarize a theory in practical and concrete ways in the parking lot.

Literally! 🚘 

I filmed this video 5 minutes before I was about to teach a lecture on personality and positive psychology in my liberal arts class.

Just a few weeks before all St. Clair College classes went fully online due to COVID-19.

In the video above, I talk about the connection between openness and happiness. Openness to experience is one of the Big 5 Personality traits – see figure below.

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Why Openness?

The more open, adventurous, and flexible we are in our thinking (and being), the more likely we are to perceive ambiguity as a pathway to something new and exciting.

A whole new road, yet to be discovered.

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Today’s Psychology Lesson

We never know what’s waiting on the other side of COVID uncertainty.

So let’s stay open to the possibilities. 

Trust and believe in our shared journey. 

Even if we can’t see the outcome. 

Together in faith, anything is possible!

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Video of Post ⇒ Click Here

Let Your North Star Guide You

On By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn Affirmation, community, Happiness, Hope, Mantra, Mental Health, Mindfulness, Peace, positivity, Reflection Question18 Comments

My Wish For You Today

May you find peace in your home.

And calm in your heart.

No matter the storm.

PEACE is an inside job. DrAndreaDinardo.com

Psychology Thought for the Day

The goal isn’t to get rid of all our negative thoughts and emotions.

The goal is to change our response to them.

To accept them without judgement.

To transcend them when the time is right.

e·qua·nim·i·ty

Mental calmness, composure, and evenness of temper, especially in a difficult situation. “She accepted both the good and the bad with equanimity”.

This video may help:

Let Your North Star Guide You 

How do you rise above? 💫

Watch Video of Post → Click Here

Windsor Updates Spotlight

On By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, Gratitude, Reflection Question, Resilience, Strengths Assessment, Stress Hardiness, Thriving, Video

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Community Spotlight 

Today I would like to shine a light on a local entrepreneur named Alex Binaei, the creative mind behind Windsor Updates and the video highlighted in this post.

Adversity → Creativity

Alex’s video for Windsor Updates is one of the best examples of how crisis and adversity create innovation and ingenuity. In both our community and in ourselves.

♥  Pass It On ♥

Windsor Updates

This video is a compilation of news, announcements, and local community members discussing the Covid-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic taking place in Windsor-Essex Ontario and around the world. Including offers of support, advice, and information.

“Alone we can do so little. Together we can do so much.”

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Research on Social Support & Psychological Health

Being surrounded by people who are supportive helps individuals see themselves as capable of handling stress and adversity. Research has also shown that having strong social support in times of crisis can help reduce the consequences of trauma-induced disorders including PTSD.

Original Source: Click Here

Thank you Windsor Updates for including me in this vital project. Your ingenuity and generosity gives me strength and hope! ♥

What has COVID-19 awakened in you?

On By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, Gratitude, Mental Health Education, Reflection Question, Resilience, Strengths Assessment, Stress Hardiness, Thriving, Video70 Comments

How is everyone doing?

How are you coping with our shared worldwide experience?

How has your perception of yourself and the world evolved?

How has COVID-19 transformed you?

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I Am Waking Up

After socially distancing for several days, and working full-time from home as a psychology professor (now online), I had never felt more appreciative and grateful for all the simple joys in my life.

Walking on campus. Smiling in the hallways. Laughing with students. Chatting in the parking lot. Coffee at Starbucks. High Fives At The Gym. Wandering Freely Through Bookstores. Movies at Silver City. Buttery popcorn. Ice cold pop. A Gathering in The Park.

Love List

So much goodness that I often took for granted in the course of an ordinary day.

Every adversity, every heartache carries with it the seed of an equal or greater benefit.

What is the higher lesson in all of this?

In the video above created for a community resilience project — I share all the ways my husband John and I are thriving (instead of merely surviving) the COVID-19 crisis. Including counting our blessings like never before.

Community Resilience Dr. Andrea Dinardo.

Community Resilience

Now is the opportunity to come together as a resilient community. From the basement of our fears to the penthouse of our faith. Rising in unison. Together in strength and love.

Your Thoughts

What has COVID-19 crisis awakened in you?

How has your inner and outer life evolved?

How have you thrived and grown?

Stay Well My Friends! 🌍 🦋 

“Like the butterfly, I have the hope, the strength, and the faith to believe that in time, we will emerge from our cocoon transformed.

Video of Post ⇒ Click Here 

The Power of Breathing Space: You are Safe

On By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, courage, Health Psychology, Hope, Inspiration, leadership, Mantra, Mindfulness, Optimism, Peace, Reflection Question, Resilience, Stress Hardiness, Thriving, Video66 Comments

Every time we take a long deep breath, we are telling our bodies that we are safe.

Each breath connecting
our mind, body, and heart.

Bringing us back to present time.

Dr. Andrea Dinardo Breathing Space

Breathing Techniques To Try

Follow Your Breath Become aware of each inhalation and exhalation. Focus on the sensations you feel as air passes through your nose and throat. When you feel your thoughts drift, gently redirect your attention back to your breath.

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Stand Up Straight Posture is especially important for breathing. Being upright enhances the rhythmic movement between the diaphragm and ribs. Hold yourself straight. Shoulders back. Feel the power of your breath.

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Think Reassuring Thoughts While Breathing With each breath, think soothing thoughts (“I am inhaling calm”). With each exhalation, imagine that you are expelling your fears and worries (“I am exhaling worry”).

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Abdominal Breathing Breathe through your stomach. Start by inflating your belly by inhaling, as if to fill it with air, then swell your chest; as you exhale, first “empty” your stomach, then your chest.

Breathing Quotes - Dr. Andrea Dinardo

Balanced Breathing At the end of each inhalation, pause briefly while slowly counting “1, 2, 3”. Hold the air in. Then slowly exhale counting “1, 2, 3”.

Source: Scientific American

Reflection Questions

What brings you peace during uncertainty?

What gives you strength?

Breathing Video → Click Here

Ambitious Mama Podcast: Thriving Under Pressure & Posttraumatic Growth

On By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, empowerment, Happiness, health, Hope, Inspiration, Interview, Mental Health, Mental Health Education, motivation, Optimism, Personal Growth, Positive Psychology, Resilience, resources, Stress Hardiness24 Comments

Dr. Andrea Dinardo Ambitious Mama Podcast

Podcast Details & Show Notes

I was recently interviewed by wellness entrepreneur Christa Realba for her Ambitious Mama Podcast Series.

During the podcast, Christa and I discussed how posttraumatic growth and thriving under pressure are possible for all of us.

In different gradients, and at different times for sure. Depending on where you are on your journey.

Dr. Andrea Dinardo PTG Resources
Click Here for Helpful Workbook & Resources

We also discussed how we all have pain and adversity. It’s universal to all of us.

The key is to not get stuck in the challenge and let pain become your identity.

Dr. Andrea Dinardo Resilience

Instead, with support, encouragement, and the right set of resilience skills (this is what I teach), we all have the capacity to grow from difficulty.

To learn from it. To rise up and begin again when the time is right.

In addition to the podcast, resilience is discussed in more detail in my TEDx Talk and on my Psychology Blog, both called “Thriving Under Pressure”: https://DrAndreaDinardo.com

Listen to Podcast

  1.  Apple iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/thriving-under-pressure-with-dr-andrea-dinardo/id1482282864?i=1000464930886
  2. Anchor FM: https://anchor.fm/ambitiousmama/episodes/Thriving-Under-Pressure-with-Dr–Andrea-Dinardo-ealagi
  3. Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/ambitious-mama/e/67169349

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Your Turn

Do you believe thriving under pressure + posttraumatic growth are possible for all of us? Why or why not? Tune into my latest podcast interview and let me know what you think!

Related Post: Teaching Resilience at School

Psychology on YouTube

On By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, Mental Health Education, psychology, Psychology Class, Public Speaking, resources, Teaching, Video

Dr. Andrea on YouTube↓ Latest YouTube Video ↓

My number one intention for becoming a psychologist and psychology professor has always been to help people live a better life, no matter their life circumstances.

And since there are only so many hours in a day, I’m always looking for new ways to reach and teach as many people as I can. All at once, if possible.   

Which is why I created a Psychology Tips Playlist on my YouTube Channel that I contribute to weekly.

Fun Learning Opportunity

The purpose of my Psychology YouTube Channel is to share the key lessons of my 3 hour psychology lectures in 3 to 5 minutes.

  • Giving people far and wide access to virtual classes, especially those who don’t have the money or means to an undergraduate education.

I know how busy everyone is. And I love a good challenge! 

I also include videos of psychology workshops and keynote speeches.

Be sure to visit my psychology playlist weekly for new videos!

Better yet: Subscribe to my YouTube Channel

Visit YouTube Channel ⇒ Click Here

https://m.youtube.com/c/DrAndreaDinardo

CPR: Sustainable Mental Health Habits

On By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn Change and Transformation, community, Coping Strategies, Emotional Awareness, Health Psychology, Mental Health, Mindfulness, Peace, Resilience, Self-Care, Stress, Teaching, Thriving, Video32 Comments

Dr. Andrea Dinardo MENTAL HEALTH HABITS

sus·tain·a·bil·i·ty
/səˌstānəˈbilədē/

The ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level.

Catch Pause Repair (CPR) is a Framework for Sustainable Mental Health & Resilience Habits.

CPR includes three simple steps as outlined in the video below:

1. Catch

Catch yourself in the midst (or before) before a stress response escalates by becoming more aware of what triggers you.

2. Pause

Pause and take a 60 second time out when you feel the physical sensations of stress begin to escalate.

3. Repair

Repair the root source of the heightened stress response which is often physiological in nature. Possible unmet needs include: sleep, food, fresh air, exercise.

DrAndreaDinardo.com QUOTE

Supporting Student Health

Requested by

The CPR Presentation  was developed for the St. Clair College Student Sustainability Group as part of their initiative for supporting the health and wellbeing of college staff, faculty, and students.

New Opportunity

This was the first time I’ve been approached to make a video for a third party. And it was so much fun!



			
					

	




			
				


			

		

			
How to stay motivated as you prepare for your TEDX Talk.

						

				On  By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, Coping Strategies, Inspiration, motivation, Optimal Performance, Public Speaking, Purpose and Meaning, Video			

					


		

			

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Last night I had the wonderful opportunity to speak to the new roster of TEDX Windsor speakers at Beachgrove Golf and Country Club in Windsor Ontario.


“A goal should scare you a little bit and excite you a lot.”


In the 4 min video below I advise the 2019 @TEDxWindsor Speakers how to stay motivated during the extensive and lengthy TEDX preparation process.


These tips apply to life too!


Reminding speakers HOW THEY DREAMED of becoming a TEDX SPEAKER long before they had the INCREDIBLE FORTUNE to became one.


What’s your why?






YOUR TURN


Do you want to be a TEDX Speaker one day?


What would the name of your TEDX Talk be? 




ADDITIONAL INFORMATION


1. Purchase Tickets for the June 8 TEDX Windsor Event


https://tedxwindsor.com/events/tedxwindsor-2019


2. Watch TEDX Talk THRIVING UNDER PRESSURE






 ✨Today’s Psychology Opportunity✨


Choose to believe in something bigger than yourself. And let your North Star light your way.


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Dare to Dream!


			
					

	




			
				


			

		

			
Change the world. One compliment at a time.

						

				On  By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, Emotional Intelligence, Hope, positivity, Strengths			

					


		

			
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Celebrate their strengths.


Today I encourage you to notice the little things in everyone you meet. Their smile. What lifts them up. What makes their heart sing. How hard they work. How they get through a day.


Show them you care.


Acknowledge them. Notice them. Lean in. Listen completely. Praise their hard work. Compliment their positive attitude. Encourage their dreams. Thank them for their service.


It only takes a moment to change a life.


Never forget how good it feels to hear something positive about yourself. Pass the good vibes on.💛💫


kindness


			
					

	




			
				


			

		

			
Lemon Soul Podcast: Thriving Under Pressure

						

				On  By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, Coping Strategies, courage, Emotional Awareness, Emotional Intelligence, empowerment, Gratitude, Happiness, Health Psychology, Hope, Inspiration, Interview, Mental Health, Mental Health Education, Optimal Performance, Personal Growth, Positive Psychology, Resilience, resources23 Comments			

					


		

			
The Psychology of Wellness


I recently had the opportunity to be interviewed on the Lemon Soul Podcast by an engaging and bright young woman named Sierra Parr.


It was one of the most rewarding projects I have worked on and I hope you find the same value in listening to the podcast as I had co-creating it with Ms. Parr.


What is a Lemon Soul? 🍋


A lemon soul is someone who has been sweetened by the sour parts of life. Resulting in the most beautiful soul of all – “The Lemon Soul”.


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The Lemon Soul Experience 🍋


Sierra’s podcast questions are timely, thought-provoking, and well-organized.


With equal parts practicality, spirituality, and science. Wrapped up in a captivating and compassionate interview style.


So much so, that I revealed parts of my life that I have never shared publicly before.


Take a listen and let me know what resonates with you!


Lemon Soul Podcast: Episode 15


 Tap on Image Below and Press Play


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Thriving Under Pressure: Psychology of Mental Wellness


Listen on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/podcast/lemon-soul/id1386504193?mt=2&i=1000432857445


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SHOW NOTES FROM LEMON SOUL PODCAST 🍋 


Very honoured to sit down with Dr. Andrea Dinardo this week and divulge all my lemon soul questions with her. A true testament to her work as a psychologist and now psychology professor, this episode is FULL of good advice! With a deeper insight into many of our mental health struggles and the science behind how our brain is working. Furthermore diving into Dr. Dinardo’s personal life as she uncovers her fundamental inspiration for everything she does in life, her sister.


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Lemon Soul Podcast on iTunes


Topics covered on the podcast:       


From psychologist to psychology professor!

How to motivate students!

Why connection is important.

Compassion fatigue

The givers & the takers

Setting boundaries for others and ourselves.

Thriving Under Pressure!

Failure as Feedback!

Are we socialized to care?

How to train your brain

Challenge, Control, & Commitment

Honour your pain!

B r e a t h i n g s p a c e !

The universe box

Claiming your prize

GET MOVING!


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I hope this podcast interview inspires you to take the road less traveled this week.


The one you have been waiting to take for days, months, perhaps years.


If not now, when?


Listen Here: Lemon Soul Podcast


			
					

	




			
				


			

		

			
Women with Drive Summit

						

				On  By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, Inspiration, Mental Health, Positive Psychology, Public Speaking, resources, Video			

					


		

			
“There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about.”


Mental Health & Happiness Speech




“If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”


In celebration of this year’s International Women’s Day I had the opportunity to speak at a Windsor Summit called Women with Drive.


A local conference organized by a young woman named Cierra Bray, who poured her heart and soul for months into planning, organizing, and promoting the exhilarating two-day event.


“Educate a girl, and you educate a community.” 


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All Photos by Charlie O’Brien


When asked to describe the conference to those who were unable to attend, I summed it up in three words: beautiful, heartwarming, and informative.


And even more than that — my favourite takeaway from the Women with Drive Summit was the empowering community Cierra Bray, the organizer, created.


Including weekly WWD newsletters and face-to-face reunions for all who participated.


For gatherings aren’t meant as a means to an end. Instead, they are just the beginning for all that is yet to come.


Heal. Learn. Grow. Succeed.


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“Expand your knowledge by expanding your community.”






LESSONS LEARNED


From an Audience Member 


 For all 7 lessons, visit GutsyFeeling.com


Ms. Nathalie Begin shares her lessons below:


PROTECT YOURSELF


Dr. Dinardo explained to us all about positive psychology while sharing with us some of the struggles she faced earlier in her career as a psychologist.


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The main focus of her discussion was about protecting yourself from everyone’s problems.


One of the main things that Dr. Dinardo struggled with years ago was protecting her own mental health when she had all of these patients who needed her help.


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She taught us that we should be focusing less on the PROBLEMS in our lives, and more on strengths and goodness in our lives.


When someone comes to her with a problem, she believes it is best to speak 15 minutes about the problem, and 45 about the solutions, strengths and goodness.


Dr. Dinardo explains that we must build on what is STRONG, not on what is WRONG.


If you spend too much time talking about the problems, you will never find a solution.


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She also explains that we must protect ourselves from other people’s  problems.


We should be respectful of other peoples time and energy, and ensure that it is okay to talk about our problems with other people. (We often word vomit our problems onto so many people in our lives and this is not okay to do all the time.)


Dr. Dinardo explains one of her favorite practices is the 10 minute timer. She allows friends to vent for 10 minutes, and after that time it is over.


Overall, it is important that we protect our energy and respect others energy in order to stay sane and happy.


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All photos by Charlie O’Brien


“Together we rise.” 💞


			
					

	




			
				


			

		

			
Directory of Bloggers on Social Media.

						

				On  By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, empowerment, Inspiration, motivation, resources, technology, Video83 Comments			

					


		

			
Expanding Our WordPress Writing Community.


community


Connecting - Sharing - Expanding


The Power of Community


This post is an opportunity for you to share all the wonderful things that you’re doing as a writer on the world wide web.


Including your: WordPress. LinkedIn. Pinterest. Google+. Facebook. Snap Chat. Twitter. Instagram. YouTube. Vimeo. etc.


Please share in the comments below.


Our highest mission is to support each other.


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Dr. Andrea's Resources to Share


Social Media and Writing Sites


    

  1. WordPress: DrAndreaDinardo.com
    2. 

  2. Instagram:  @DrADinardo
    3. 

  3. Twitter: @DrADinardo
    4. 

  4. LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/company/positive-psychology-talks
    5. 

  5. The Drive Magazine: PSYCH DRIVE Psychology Column
    6. 

  6. YouTube Channel: Click Here
    7. 



YouTube Playlists:


1. Psychology Tips Playlist, includes 50 psychology videos so far, updated weekly.




2. TEDx University of Windsor  Playlist, includes all 8 TEDx talks from the Diamonds from Pressure TEDx official event that I presented at in 2018.




Your Resources to Share


Your Turn


I see the amazing work you do.


It’s time for the rest of the world to see too.


Share in comments below. 


Add WordPress site too!


Sharing is Caring! 


			
					

	




			
				


			

		

			
You Can Do College Event

						

				On  By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, empowerment, Personality Assessment, psychology, Public Speaking, Purpose and Meaning, Strengths, Stress Hardiness, Student Motivation, Student Success17 Comments			

					


		

			








I love sharing ideas with students


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I can’t imagine a better moment in life to learn about purpose and empowerment than when we are young.


Which is why I embrace every opportunity to share the principles of positive psychology with students across Canada.


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The most recent opportunity being a conference called: “You Can Do College.”


    

  • 600 grade 10 students from 14 high schools participated in the 2 day conference.
    • 



The purpose of the event was to introduce high school students to all the programs available to them when they graduate in a few years.


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Showing them that if they work hard today — “They Can Do College” in the future. Whether it be as a civil engineer, a veterinary technician, a nurse, or an early childhood educator.


The choice is theirs to make


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Students are our future.


My job as a Motivational Speaker was to ignite their inner flame for higher learning. This is what I was born to do! 🔥


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Pay attention to the person right in front of you. They have something to teach you.


Connecting with audience members is essential for me. No matter how big or small the crowd.


Accordingly, I encouraged students to answer as many questions as they could (which they did!) as I walked and talked freely with the large crowd.


Hoping to meet as many of the 600 students as I could.


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One of my favourite moments was when the young gentleman above shared his lifelong dream of becoming an engineer.


Just listening to his mission shifted me to a higher place.


The icing on the cake was hearing about destiny from a student named Destiny. 


Destiny aspires to be a cosmetologist to the stars one day. How cool is that!


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The next time you meet a student, ask them about their dreams. The stress they’re experiencing immediately disappears.

			
					

	




			
				


			

		

			
Good energy multiplies.

						

				On  By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, Hope, Inspiration, Optimism, Peace, positivity24 Comments			

					


		

			
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I want to give the world the best of me.


This is my hope every time we meet.


And every time I teach. 


No matter how brief or long our interaction.


I want to leave you feeling brighter, lighter, more confident. 


The bonus is — when your energy rises, so does mine.


A boomerang effect of the highest kind. 


Which is why I will always keep your vibes in mind.


When your day brightens, so does mine. 💫


How will you illuminate the world today?


Related Post: Shine your light.


			
					

	




			
				


			

		

			
1000 views on the official TEDx site!

						

				On  By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, Optimism, Positive Psychology, Resilience, Stress Hardiness, Teaching, Thriving, Video			

					


		

			
I am so excited to share that my TEDx video hit 1000 views today! 🎥


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A BIG thank you for watching and sharing my TEDx talk with your friends and family. We are stronger than our stress. This I know for sure. Together we will thrive under pressure. 💥


Click on TEDx Video → Thriving Under Pressure



			
					

	




			
				


			

		

			
The domino effect.

						

				On  By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, Happiness, Hope, Inspiration, kindness, Mental Health, Peace, positivity			

					


		

			
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Smile like you’re changing the world. Because you are. 🌸


We often think of changing of the world as some great big, grand gesture. Performed on stage with millions of people watching. When in fact it’s just you and me (and 7 billion others). Smiling, connecting, caring, and loving. Every moment. Every encounter. We are the dominos.


Related Post: What if our only life purpose was to be kind?


			
					

	




			
				


			

		

			
Compassion heals.

						

				On  By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, Hope, Mental Health, Peace, Personal Growth40 Comments			

					


		

			
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Listening heals more hearts than talking ever will.


In my early thirties I was going through a particularly tough time in my life.


A trifecta of life events where every pillar in my world came tumbling down.


Out of all the sadness, the times that I remember the most were the small joys and simple pleasures with my family and friends.


No matter how complicated and messy life became, it was their unwavering support that pulled me through.


“Just being there” is more powerful than most people realize.


Afternoons with my Dad walking down country roads. Weekends with my Mom at the dollar store. Sundays with my big sister at Tim Hortons.


Surprise phone calls from my two brothers. Relaxing with old friends in their cozy homes  — long past the time and energy they initially had for me.


The best kind of love is simple. It creates a safe space to lose yourself and find yourself all over again. No words necessary.


Listening heals more hearts than talking ever will.


Related Post: It’s ok to not be ok.


			
					

	




			
				


			

		

			
Strengthened by adversity.

						

				On  By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, courage, empowerment, Hope, Psychology Class, Resilience, Strengths, Student Success, Teaching, Thriving50 Comments			

					


		

			
“Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny.” C. S. Lewis


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When was the last time you had to start over?


This was a big week back at St. College College — and all colleges across Ontario. Students were returning to school after a 5 week province-wide strike.


An arduous situation that was well beyond student control.


So it was essential that I foster a safe space for students to transition back onto campus and into my psychology classroom. To help them begin again.


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My intention was to bridge the gap from stress to strength.


To remind them of times in their lives where they had experienced the stress of starting over. Including the strike. And triumphed despite all the suffering.


For it is in our dark times that we discover our light. And it is in our pain that we find our power. Difficult times force us to dig deep for courage and reach out for support.


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And ultimately discover a strength far greater than any adversity.


This week I have never been more proud to be a college professor.


This week students taught me.




What strengths have helped you through challenge & adversity?


Related: The Paradox of Strength.


			
					

	




			
				


			

		

			
Purpose for one day

						

				On  By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, Inspiration, Mindfulness, motivation, Optimism, Peace, positivity, Purpose and Meaning, Self Actualization, Self Reflection54 Comments			

					


		

			
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I have the pleasure of starting each day with my husband John.


Each morning begins at 6am with an hour of coffee talk weekends included.


No alarm clock necessary. 


Having something as wonderful as hot coffee and good conversation to look forward to each day is its own wake up call.


 
 
 
  
 
  
 
  
 
  
  


This morning I asked John to share why he thought he was born.


Deep talk, I know.


But that’s just how life rolls when you’re married to a psychologist.


John’s answer: “To make one person’s life better that day.”


To which I replied: “Purpose achieved.” (He makes the best coffee!)


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This conversation got me thinking about how important it is to live our purpose in short 24 hour segments. Too long a timeline and we feel lost and overwhelmed.


Name the purpose. Claim the day. Leave the details up to the universe.


Who. What. Where. When. How. Are spontaneous.


Simply be on the lookout for one opportunity to be on purpose for one day.


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1 person. 1 purpose. 1 day.


			
					

	




			
				


			

		

			
Every time you smile, I smile.

						

				On  By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, Happiness, Inspiration, kindness, Positive Psychology, positivity, Resilience37 Comments			

					


		

			
 Did you know that today is World Smile Day?


It’s the first Friday in October every year. (October 6 in 2017.)


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Small gesture. Big impact.


I smile a lot. So much so, that one of my coworkers calls me “smiley” and almost everyone else I know (including my mom) calls me “sunshine”.☀️


What about you? Are you known as the smiler at work and in your family too?


Why do I smile so much? 1) I love brightening someone’s day, 2) As an extrovert, I’m wired to smile, 3) I have a lot to smile about, and 4) Smiling feels so darn good!


So it’s no wonder that I love this very cool day dedicated to smiling. If you’re also interested, you can check out the World Smile Day website. It’s filled with articles, history, and fun events happening around the world. Smiling rocks!


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Fascinating research on smiling.


Smiles are more than skin deep.


Have you ever wondered why you can’t help but smile back when someone smiles at you? And why it feels so good when someone (strangers included) smile. It turns out that smiling is linked to a specific type of neuron called mirror neurons.


“Neuroscientist Giacomo Rizzolatti, MD, who with his colleagues at the University of Parma first identified mirror neurons, says that these neurons could help explain how and why we “read” other people’s minds and feel empathy for them.” Source: APA Monitor




The ripple effect of positivity.


Mirror theory helps us understand why emotions are so contagious. Just like mirrors reflecting back visual images, mirror neurons cause us to instinctively mimic the facial expressions and emotions of others. Simply seeing someone smile generates a community chain reaction of positive emotions and behaviour.


One more reason to share your good vibes with the world.


Every smile helps!


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Smiling is good for your health.


Need more reasons to smile?


Neurotransmitters called endorphins are released when you smile. An opiate like structure that is the chemical equivalent of morphine. Smiling has also been shown to reduce stress hormones and rewire the brain.


No wonder smiling feels so awesome!


Let’s Celebrate World Smile Day Together


For the next 24 hours, make note of all the things that make you smile. Big smiles. Small smiles. Sly smiles. Goofy smiles. Anything and everything in between.


Just writing about what makes you smile – will make you smile. I guarantee it.


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Teaching college students all about positive psychology makes me smile!


Don’t forget to share what makes you smile today.


Every time you smile, I smile.


			
					

	




			
				


			

		

			
Staying Motivated During Challenging Times.

						

				On  By Dr. Andrea DinardoIn community, empowerment, health, Inspiration, motivation, Optimal Performance, positivity, Student Motivation, Success, Thriving65 Comments			

					


		

			
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Today’s story begins in the middle of my kickboxing class. The point in time where you feel like giving up the most.


Because the middle is always the hardest. Whether it be the middle of a semester, the middle of a week, or the middle of a dentist appointment. Ugh!


It was thirty minutes into class, and we had just finished a really tough round. I wanted to celebrate how far we’d come, so I began clapping and cheering.


Despite my excitement, my instructor gave me a curious look and said: “Why are you clapping Andrea? We are far from being done.”


She was right. We still had a significant amount of time left in our workout. But I wasn’t clapping because we were finished. I was clapping because we had hit the wall and survived. I was clapping to energize!


CHEERING in the MIDDLE


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A cheering strategy that I often use in my own classroom. Students are geared up at the start of the semester and pumped up at the end. It’s in the middle that their commitment starts to falter.


This is when I clap wholeheartedly simply because students show up to class. A fun gesture underscoring how much I value their commitment to education. And they love it!


Today I am reminded how small gestures energize big time in the midst of a challenge. Be it a high five. A wide smile. A kind word. Or calling students by name.


Because beginnings have their own ticker parades. And endings take care of themselves.


It’s in the middle of a challenge where we need positive energy the most.




Related Post: What's your why?


What keeps you motivated in the midst of a challenge?