Skip to main content Skip to bottom nav
Community /

IDG 7 Cups Community Hub Forum

Info
204 Friends
Filter by Topic
Acting - Enabling Change Being - Relationship to Self Collaborating - Social Skills Relating - Caring for Others and the World Thinking - Cognitive Skills
Community calendar
Group chat
Ask questions, get support and make friends
Find a group chat
My communities
Talk to an expert therapist
Counseling is about making changes you seek in your life. It is a place that...
Talk to Stacy Now
New subscribers
Create a New Thread
Gif Photo Link
SoulfullyAButterfly profile picture
Evolution of Values: Embracing Change
by SoulfullyAButterfly
Last post
 Friday
...See more Values are fundamental beliefs and principles that guide our attitudes, behaviors, and decision-making. They play a crucial role in shaping our identities and influencing the way we interact with the world. It's fascinating how these values can transform throughout our lives due to a variety of factors. Life experiences often serve as catalysts for changes in our values. These experiences can be both positive and negative. For instance, personal achievements, such as landing a dream job or achieving a long-term goal, can lead to a greater emphasis on values like ambition or perseverance. On the other hand, facing adversity, loss, or hardship can prompt a reevaluation of values, placing greater importance on qualities like resilience, empathy, or compassion. Cultural exposure and diversity also contribute to the evolution of our values. Interacting with people from different backgrounds and belief systems can broaden our perspectives and lead to a deeper appreciation for values like tolerance, inclusivity, and cultural sensitivity. Moreover, as we progress through various life stages, such as adolescence, adulthood, or parenthood, our priorities and values often shift to align with our evolving responsibilities and personal growth. Think of a value that you have now that you did not used to have, or one that has become more important to you. What life experiences led to this value changing? How does this change affect you now? Please share your thoughts and experiences on how your values have evolved. Reflecting on the evolution of our values can help us embrace change while cultivating the Being (Relationship to Self) Dimension of the Inner Developmental Goals.
SoulfullyAButterfly profile picture
Cognitive Skills Activity: Future Mental Health Scenario Analysis
by SoulfullyAButterfly
Last post
 January 17th
...See more Ready to develop critical thinking, complexity awareness, perspective skills, and long-term orientation? We have an interesting activity for you! Scenario: Imagine a future where the prevalence of mental health challenges continues to rise due to various societal factors, such as increased stress, social isolation, and economic uncertainty. Instructions: 1. Research the Scenario: Gather information from credible sources on the factors contributing to the projected increase in mental health challenges. Explore different viewpoints and expert opinions on this issue. 2. Identify Key Factors: Identify the key factors and driving forces that contribute to the complexity of the scenario. Consider both short-term and long-term factors, such as the impact of technology, healthcare policies, and social support systems. 3. Create A Scenario: Develop 1 more future scenario that envisions how mental health challenges might evolve over the next 5 years. The scenario should cover a range of possibilities, from optimistic to pessimistic. 4. Analyze and Evaluate: Apply critical thinking skills to analyze and evaluate each scenario. Assess the credibility of the evidence and assumptions underlying each scenario. 5. Complexity Mapping: Create a visual representation (e.g., a mind map or diagram) that illustrates the interconnectedness of factors and causes within each scenario. Highlight potential cause-and-effect relationships. 6. Perspective Consideration: During your analysis, actively seek and incorporate insights from diverse and contrasting viewpoints. Consider how different stakeholders, including individuals, healthcare providers, and policymakers, might perceive and respond to each scenario. 7. Long-Term Vision: For each scenario, explore the long-term implications and potential outcomes for mental health and society as a whole. Formulate a vision or commitment that aligns with the broader context and takes into account the extended future. 8. Compare and Reflect: Compare and contrast the different scenarios, considering their complexity, credibility, and long-term implications. Reflect on what you've learned about the future of mental health and your ability to think critically and anticipate future developments. Share your brainstorming, analysis, or reflections in the comments to this post!
Elephi profile picture
Courage: A Valuable Skill
by Elephi
Last post
 14 minutes ago
...See more Courage requires the willingness to take a stance on a particular position, and the tenacity not to give up in the face of discomfort. Emotional courage can be practiced and cultivated like any action-oriented skill. Personal values may serve as a foundation for emotional courage, upon which purposeful action may be developed. Those who struggle with feeling courageous might find that a period of self-reflection on their most important values can be used to identify what goals align best with their intention and purpose.  Courage takes some grit, and a little bit of confidence that one's efforts will yield desirable results. One way of building more confidence is to seek support in others. Surrounding oneself with positive people who believe in them can make the difference between the ability to stand strong, or to fall short, when faced with challenges that need courageous attention. Displaying courage by taking a stand for oneself, or for others, in accordance with their core values can contribute to a person's sense of overall efficacy in the world, and employing assertive communication styles (being clear and firm) can positively impact a person's self-esteem.  Developing courage is a learnable behavior that can be strengthened through practice and applied focus. Discussion Questions: * Who is the most courageous person you know, and what have they done that has impacted you personally? * Has there ever been a time where you took a risk that required courage, but it didn't pay off? If yes, what did you do regain your confidence?
Soelsawyer4901 profile picture
inner development goals
by Soelsawyer4901
Last post
 3 hours ago
...See more it is essential to care and appreciate and feel connected to others such as neighbors friends family coworkers all of that helps us creating more sustainable systems and societies for everyone. For example empathy and compassion and that the ability to relate to others and i think it's important to connect with people 
BelieveinZephyra profile picture
The Importance of Long-Term Visioning in Personal and Professional Success
by BelieveinZephyra
Last post
 11 hours ago
...See more In an era where instant gratification is common, having a long-term vision is a crucial skill for success. Long-term visioning helps us define our purpose, set meaningful goals, and make strategic decisions that align with our aspirations. Whether in our careers, education, or personal lives, a clear vision allows us to stay focused and motivated, even in the face of challenges. People with strong long-term vision don’t just react to situations—they proactively shape their future. They set clear goals, anticipate obstacles, and remain committed even when results take time. This mindset is essential for leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone striving for growth. However, developing a long-term vision requires patience, discipline, and the ability to balance short-term actions with long-term goals. One of the biggest challenges in long-term visioning is staying motivated when progress seems slow. It’s easy to feel discouraged when immediate results aren’t visible. This is why it’s important to break big goals into smaller milestones. Celebrating small wins along the way can help maintain motivation. Visualization techniques, journaling, and creating a personal roadmap can also help reinforce a long-term mindset. Another key aspect of visioning is adaptability. While having a clear goal is important, it’s equally crucial to remain flexible and open to change. Unexpected obstacles, new opportunities, or shifts in personal interests may require adjustments to our vision. The ability to refine and evolve our goals while staying committed to our overall direction is a hallmark of successful long-term thinkers. Have you ever struggled with balancing short-term challenges and long-term goals? How do you stay committed to your vision when progress seems slow? What strategies have helped you maintain a long-term mindset in your personal or professional journey?
BelieveinZephyra profile picture
The Role of Integrity and Authenticity in Personal and Professional Growth
by BelieveinZephyra
Last post
 13 hours ago
...See more Integrity and authenticity are two of the most important qualities that shape our personal and professional lives. Integrity means consistently acting in alignment with our values, being honest, and taking responsibility for our actions. Authenticity, on the other hand, is about staying true to ourselves expressing our thoughts, beliefs, and emotions in a way that reflects who we genuinely are. These qualities build trust, strengthen relationships, and lead to long-term success. In today’s world, where social and professional pressures often encourage people to conform or present a polished version of themselves, staying authentic can be difficult. Social media, corporate expectations, and cultural norms sometimes push us to hide parts of who we are. However, when we embrace authenticity and act with integrity, we feel more confident, build deeper connections, and create a positive impact on those around us. Integrity is also a crucial trait in leadership. Leaders who act with honesty and stay true to their values inspire trust and loyalty in their teams. In contrast, a lack of integrity can lead to distrust, broken relationships, and missed opportunities. People respect and follow those who demonstrate consistency, fairness, and a commitment to ethical principles. However, there are challenges to maintaining integrity and authenticity. It’s not always easy to be honest when the truth is uncomfortable, nor is it simple to stay true to our values when faced with peer pressure or societal expectations. It takes self-awareness, courage, and resilience to remain authentic and uphold integrity in all situations. How do we ensure we stay true to ourselves while navigating social and professional expectations? Have you ever faced a situation where acting with integrity was difficult but ultimately rewarding? What strategies do you use to maintain authenticity in your daily life?
hopefulDew435 profile picture
Empathy and Compassion
by hopefulDew435
Last post
 14 hours ago
...See more Empathy is the ability to imagine oneself in the place of others to gain a sense of what they're feeling. When you are empathetic, it is easy to accumulate and demonstrate compassion. For instance, if someone is feeling upset and frustrated, you may empathize and feel the same. You may even take it one step further in being compassionate towards them by offering to listen and being a comforting presence.  In a world that consists of hardships and pain, the application of empathy and compassion can facilitate significant change and heal so many hearts. When experiencing a difficult time, it's natural to have the desire to want to feel and be understood. I think of empathy and compassion as a warm hug that cultivates that feeling, as well as the feeling of safety. When implemented together, they produce an inner sense of calmness and peace. Empathy and compassion also allow us to build a sense of rapport and trust with others. They communicate the message that you're not alone and make room for an external perspective that's fresh and inspiring.  Empathy and compassion are traits that come naturally to me as I was led by example and taught as such whilst growing up. Both traits enable me to establish and develop strong connections with others and hold a space in which they feel heard and supported. It brings me immense joy to have that ability. In addition, empathy and compassion encourage personal growth, in consideration that they increase my self-awareness and ability to manage conflict.  It is important however, to bear in mind, that empathy and compassion aren't solely reserved for others; displaying empathy and compassion towards yourself is equally as important. In fact, when you apply them towards yourself, it becomes easier to extend the same courtesy to others.  Here are some questions for consideration:  * Do you think that you can have empathy without compassion or vice versa? Feel free to explain your reason.  * In what ways can you cultivate empathy and compassion towards others?  * How does empathy and compassion impact your life? Please share any personal experiences, if you are comfortable and would like to. 
delicateMonkey profile picture
The Beauty of I-Statements
by delicateMonkey
Last post
 2 days ago
...See more ~tell me how you feel~ Many people struggle with effective communication and look for ways to improve their social skills. One excellent way to greatly enhance your social skills by promoting clearer, non-confrontational, and empathetic interactions is by using I-Statements. Using I-Statements helps to focus on your feelings instead of blaming or criticizing the other person. This can help prevent the other person from becoming defensive and be more open to understanding another perspective. I-Statements can also improve the way your relationship with yourself. I-Statements help you become more aware of your feelings and emotions, as well as being able to identify the reason why you are feeling the way that you do. •─────────•°•discussion•°•─────────• How can you remind yourself to use I-Statements in conversation? How do you feel when you notice other people using I-Statements in your conversations?
blissart profile picture
TeamWork
by blissart
Last post
 2 days ago
...See more In this social world, dependency on one another is undeniable where all come with their own set of strengths, expertise and skills in all areas of life.  And in this framework team work plays an utmost important role in almost every aspect of life, whether in the workplace, sports or community projects. It involves collaboration, where individuals combine their skills, strengths, efforts and perspectives to achieve a common goal. For teamwork to be effective it requires clear communication, trust, and a sense of responsibility from each member. Every team member contributes unique ideas, knowledge, and abilities, which enhances the overall performance of the group. This combined effort results in better creativity, decision-making and best use of resources. Moreover, teamwork builds a supportive environment where one motivates the other and goals get easier to accomplish. Together all this becomes an important aspect of community building. Can you think of some instance where teamwork helped you gain a seemingly impossible task? Why you think companies when hiring place much importance on teamwork capabilities  of the individual ?
Sel3ne profile picture
Being in Relationship with Myself: Cultivating Presence
by Sel3ne
Last post
 2 days ago
...See more One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned in my journey is the importance of being in a relationship with myself—of truly showing up for me. For so long, I thought presence was about being fully engaged with others, but I’ve realised that the foundation of presence lies in how I connect with myself.  To me, presence means being in the here and now without judgment or distractions. It’s about stepping out of autopilot mode and choosing to notice what’s happening within and around me. Yet, being present isn’t always easy. My mind often pulls me into the past, replaying old stories, or it rushes ahead into the future, filled with plans or worries. In those moments, I gently remind myself to pause and ask: “What’s happening right now? What am I feeling, sensing, or experiencing in this moment?”. When I embrace presence, I notice life in sharper detail—the way sunlight filters through the window, the rhythm of my breath, or even the subtle weight of emotions I might otherwise ignore. It’s in these moments of open-ended presence that I find clarity and connection, not just with the world but with myself.  Being present with myself also requires letting go of judgment. When I notice self-criticism creeping in, I try to acknowledge it without letting it take over. Instead of judging my emotions or thoughts, I strive to hold them with curiosity and compassion, asking,  “What might this be trying to tell me?” It’s not always comfortable. Sometimes, being fully present means facing the parts of myself, I’d rather avoid—fear, doubt, or pain. But I’ve learned that these moments are where true growth happens. When I stay with myself, even through discomfort, I find a deeper sense of grounding and self-trust.   The gift of presence is that it helps me make the most of the opportunities of the now. Whether it’s savouring a quiet moment, noticing something beautiful, or simply allowing myself to rest, presence reminds me that life is happening here,  not in the past or the future.   1.  How often do you take time to be fully present with yourself? What helps you reconnect when you feel distracted or disconnected?   2.  What does being in a judgment-free relationship with yourself look like for you? How might this deepen your self-awareness?  I’d love to hear your reflections and learn from you, guys. How do you cultivate presence in your daily life? 🌿💚
MarinaLexi profile picture
Beyond Words: The Consistent Actions Which Build Lasting Trust
by MarinaLexi
Last post
 2 days ago
...See more "Trust is the glue of life. It's the most essential ingredient in effective communication. It's the foundational principle that holds all relationships." - Stephen Covey. It's easy to undervalue trust or see it as harmful, especially if we have experienced hurt before, but every interaction has some level of unspoken trust. We trust bus drivers to know how to drive safely, shop assistants to help us, doctors to heal us, and strangers on the street to give us directions when we are lost. (I rely on the last one a little too often, as I'm always lost!) Trust is integral to every interaction we have as human beings; it is the foundation of meaningful relationships, fostering safety, understanding, and mutual respect. Trust allows us to build resilience against life's challenges by creating strong bonds which promote mutual support; without it, society would not function. To help individuals hone their ability to foster trust with others, I have compiled a list of eight steps to build trust:  - Communicate clearly and consistently; this is the foundation of understanding, and defining boundaries, and aids the formation of reliability, which is a core facet of trust!  - Demonstrate reliability by following through on promises and commitments.   - Being honest with others (Of course, this comes with caveats! Surprise parties usually involve some level of deception, but the intention behind it matters. Trust requires good intentions for others, not just for yourself.)  - Take responsibility by owning the commitments and promises you have made.  - Treat others with respect; Be mindful of their boundaries, the ways they prefer to be treated, and remain curious and open-minded to circumstances that differ to yours.  - Hold yourself accountable for the consequences of your actions and apologise when you make a mistake.  - Cultivate empathy and understanding for others; this helps create intimacy and a sense of closeness between individuals and is another facet of trust.  - Lastly, express appreciation and gratitude; recognising a person's efforts and contributions and showing them they are valued makes them feel seen and heard. How has trust been beneficial to you? Perhaps it allowed you to accomplish something you could not have done without the help of another?  What is something you struggle with when fostering trust? Do you have any ideas which may be missing from my list? Looking forward to reading what everyone has to say! 😊
Mushroomandswiss profile picture
Trusting Your Inner Compass for Decision-Making
by Mushroomandswiss
Last post
 2 days ago
...See more I've been thinking a lot about how we can trust our own inner compass when making decisions. For a long time, I’ve looked to others for advice or tried to follow what’s expected of me. But recently, I’ve realized how important it is to listen to my own instincts and values. When I actually take a moment to pause and tune in to how I’m feeling, it often leads me to make choices that feel truer to who I am. There are still times when it’s hard to trust myself. External opinions can be loud, and it’s easy to second-guess what I truly want. But I’ve learned that when I make the effort to trust my gut, even if it feels uncertain, I often feel more aligned and at peace with my decisions. It’s not about having the perfect answer, but rather about honoring what feels right in my heart, even if it’s not what others would choose. In the end, embracing my inner compass has helped me make decisions that fit with my values and long-term goals, and I’ve become more confident in myself. It’s been a huge part of my growth, and I’m learning to trust myself more each day. How do you typically navigate tough decisions? Do you find it easy to trust your inner compass, or do you tend to rely on other factors more?
zealousRose5745 profile picture
Character Traits
by zealousRose5745
Last post
 2 days ago
...See more The first dimension of the Inner Development Goals contains concepts related to Being-and our relationship with ourselves.  In order for us to grow and adapt, we must first be able to identify and assess where we are right now.  We need to 'drop a pin' and check in using our own thoughts in relation to feedback from the world around us.   With this in mind, I hit the link to the VIA institute and took the survey to identify what character traits might be my greatest strengths. This, I thought, could really help me leverage my present abilities and identify some areas for growth..which it did. But, if I'm honest, I will admit that I was initially disappointed in the results.  My top two strengths were humor and appreciation or beauty and excellence.  Happily, love was included there in my top three.  I felt like humor and this appreciation of beauty and excellence both seemed like fairly fluffy, superficial traits to lead with.  Will I change the world by speaking in silly voices and win over skeptics by telling them their accessories *pop*?  I had to sit with it to consider that there were different applications to consider regarding those traits, right?  For example, I think humor is sometimes an expression of humility.  We do need to remember not to take ourselves too seriously sometimes.  Another perspective I would offer is that there can be great power in finding light (or a giggle) when we feel heavy with darkness.  Humor can, in fact, be incredibly helpful when applied with discernment. Like humor, appreciation of beauty and excellence can present more than one way.  It didn't say appreciation of "standard, physical" beauty.  Nor did the character trait read as  "excellence, as defined by rank and salary."  For me, I realized, this trait is describing the idea that helping others identify beauty and excellence in unexpected ways can open us to more connection and gratitude. What about you? What qualities do you have that contain a duality- in that they could express themselves in unexpected way? What qualities do you see in others that apply?
Frankie111 profile picture
“I” statements for better collaborating/social skills
by Frankie111
Last post
 2 days ago
...See more I think the concept of collaborating and improving social skills with assertive/mindful communication is so important because ones language matters. It has a huge impact on ones relationships. I really like the idea of “I” statements to help change out accusing language for assertive language. I recently changed “can you stop being so annoyingly loud” to “I have a hard time concentrating when there’s loud noises”. It felt a lot less combative and felt like it was better received. Has anyone else tried using “I” statements to help change out accusing language for assertive language? How did it work out for you?
Community Leaders
Community Mentor Leader
Hope profile picture
@Hope
SoulfullyAButterfly profile picture
@SoulfullyAButterfly