In this powerful follow-up to our Purposeful Parrotfish episode, we continue exploring the profound impact of purpose—this time with Emiliya Zhivotovskaya, MAPP, CEO of The Flourishing Center and a leader in positive psychology. Emiliya shares her deeply personal journey, shaped by resilience, joy, and loss, and how she has dedicated her life to helping individuals and organizations flourish.

From her childhood inspiration to "heal the world" to founding a center that empowers others with science-backed well-being strategies, Emiliya’s story is one of perseverance, reframing, and finding meaning even in difficult times. She dives into how we can all rewrite our personal narratives, integrate mind-body well-being, and cultivate resilience through storytelling, mindfulness, and education.

Key Takeaways

1. Purpose is a journey, not a destination—it evolves through life’s challenges and passions.
2. Resilience isn’t about avoiding hardship, but about navigating difficulties while still experiencing joy.
3. Positive psychology provides powerful tools for personal and professional growth.
4. You can choose the story you tell yourself—shifting your perspective can lead to greater forgiveness, self-acceptance, and empowerment.
5. Your body holds wisdom—listening to it and practicing mindfulness enhances overall well-being.
6. Teaching resilience early matters—positive education programs help children and educators build lifelong emotional strength.

Memorable Moments

1. "If I'm not here to leave the world somewhat better when I leave than when I came in, then what am I doing here?"
2. "I used that idea of reframing that I came to later learn as a key tool for resilience."
3. "I had this blessing of becoming a professional kids party entertainer. I got to get paid a lot of really good money to have fun."
4. "How fascinating."
5. "Did he turn into the love of your life too? He's just so easy to love. He's incredible."

Resources:

David Foster Wallace "This is Water" https://youtu.be/DCbGM4mqEVw?si=86vTeNaEJd1hr_7l

The Flourishing Center: https://theflourishingcenter.com/start-here/

Connect With Us

Stay inspired by nature’s resilience and share this episode with someone who could use a new perspective on purpose.

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Explore More: Visit Resilience Gone Wild for show notes, insights, and additional resources.

When nature wins, we win.

Produced by Balancing Life's Issues (BLI Studios) in partnership with a WinWinWin Mindset.