Intentional Growth Starts Within

Hi, I’m Coach Debbie, lifelong learner, executive coach, and someone who has lived the tension between “holding it all together” and feeling like something deeper was missing.

For years, I pushed through challenges, served others with everything I had, and stayed “strong.”

But eventually, I realized that real growth—sustainable, purpose-filled growth—doesn’t come from white-knuckling your way forward. It starts from within.

That realization led me to study the science of character strengths, and everything changed.

Instead of obsessing over what I lacked, I began leveraging what was already strong in me. It was freeing. Empowering. Transformative.

And that’s why I created this 5-day mini-coaching series: Intentional Growth Starts Within.

At Diamond Cut Leadership Network (DCLN), we believe that leadership is first and foremost an inside job. This series introduces a framework that’s research-backed, deeply human, and immediately actionable: the VIA Character Strengths.

Here’s a recap of our 5-day journey to help you grow on purpose:

Day 1: Why Character Strengths Matter

Your Inner Resources Are Not Random—They’re Meant to Be Used

When I first took the VIA Survey, it gave me language for the strengths I’d been using all along—but never named. I wasn’t just “pushing through,” I was demonstrating perseverance. I wasn’t just curious—I was showing a true love of learning.

The shift? I stopped trying to fix myself and started building on my strengths.

Daily Reflection: What’s one way you’ve already used your top strength this week?

📌 Take the VIA Survey and discover your top 5 strengths.

Day 2: Self-Regulation – The Leadership Backbone

Disciplined Leaders Don’t Wait for Motivation

During a chaotic season, I created a simple “2-minute pause” ritual before meetings. It helped me lead with presence, not pressure.

Self-regulation isn’t glamorous—but it’s the foundation of consistent, grounded leadership.

Try This: Pause for 2 minutes before any big decision or hard conversation this week.

Reflection Prompt: Where in your leadership do you need to lead yourself better?

Day 3: Curiosity – The Strength of Strategic Learners

Better Leaders Ask Better Questions

I used to think coaching meant having the answers. Turns out, the real magic comes from asking the right questions—with genuine curiosity.

Curiosity helps us lead with openness, innovate wisely, and avoid assumptions.

Try This: Ask 3 open-ended questions today that you don’t already know the answer to.

Reflection Prompt: How does curiosity shape the way you respond to change?

Day 4: Bravery – The Engine Behind Bold Action

You Don’t Have to Feel Brave to Be Brave

I nearly backed out of a high-profile speaking engagement because imposter syndrome crept in. But I did it anyway—with shaky hands and a pounding heart.

Bravery is showing up aligned with your values, even when fear tags along.

Micro-Challenge: Do one brave thing this week—big or small.

Reflection Prompt: Where in your leadership are you being called to act with more courage?

Day 5: Hope + Kindness – Fueling the Future Together

Lead with Heart, Build with Vision

I’ve led and coached in environments built on fear—and ones built on hope. The difference in outcomes, connection, and culture? Night and day.

Hope gives us direction. Kindness helps us build trust as we move forward.

Try This: Send 3 messages today recognizing someone’s effort or presence—not just performance.

Reflection Prompt: What’s one hopeful and kind action you can take today?

💬 Final Reflection:

Leadership growth doesn’t happen by accident. It begins when we slow down long enough to ask: What’s already strong in me—and how can I build from that place?

✨ If this series sparked something in you—curiosity, clarity, courage—let’s talk. You don’t have to navigate your growth alone.

📩 Book your complimentary coaching session here:🔗 diamondcutleadershipnetwork.com/contactus