Saturday, April 13, 2019

Wisdom and Intelligence


Some key terms:

Intelligence: noun:
·         Capacity for learning, reasoning, understanding and similar forms of mental activity; aptitude for grasping truths, relationships, facts, meanings, etc.

Wisdom: noun:
·         The ability to think and act utilizing knowledge, experience, understanding, common sense and insight

In simple terms: Intelligence is the ability to take in, learn and mentally “absorb” knowledge whereas wisdom is our ability to effectively use that knowledge.

Group Discussion: Try to describe person who has a lot of intelligence but very little wisdom -



What about a person with lower intelligence but a lot of wisdom?



Discussion Questions:

What are some areas where you believe you have a good degree of knowledge? (Intelligence)

·         You can consider academic (related to formal education) areas such as math, history, science, etc.

·         Also think of other life areas and experiences where you picked up a degree of knowledge and expertise such as work, hobbies, trades, other interests




In what life areas do you have a lot of wisdom? (The ability to make good decisions based on your knowledge)

·         Some areas to consider – Running a business, managing a family, health, relationships, dealing with other people, risk management and safety, general life skills (“life hacks”)

In what areas might you need more wisdom?(Think of where you need to make better decisions)


Challenging question: Have you ever thought you were wise, but then you had a shift in your thinking and you started to make decisions differently?






Tuesday, April 2, 2019

Sustain


> To undergo, experience, or endure without giving way or yielding.

> To keep (a person, the mind, the spirit, etc.) from giving way, when under trial or affliction.


There is a lot involved when it comes to trauma, as often a great deal of patience and persistence is required for the process of healing. One harsh reality is that in spite of trauma, no matter how serious or complex, eventually one goal for moving forward is to be able to sustain some level of stability so that growth and recovery can take place.

Therefore, overcoming a history of trauma is not just looking into the past in an effort to try resolve past trauma. Rather, identifying and then implementing a few basic skills and strategies for sustaining functioning and moving forward even if it is gradual and slow is equally as important if not more so. Having basic tools to sustain some degree of forward momentum, in spite of occasional struggles or setbacks, is essential for long-term progress, strength and resilience.

Question for discussion:

> What simple things get you through the tough times?