In week 2, we continue the work we have done with awareness and self, to move into strengths and core values. Research has shown that focusing on our strengths is superior to focusing on weaknesses too much. We will identify your strengths, values and superpowers and keep most of our attention there. Weaknesses will be addressed to keep them from being a liability, but resist the urge to turn them into a strength.

In week 3, we will examine different models of “self.” We will explore how our view of “self” shapes our behavior. With the help of intentional change theory, we will explore three versions of self: ideal, real and ought. Then we will contrast these concepts with narrative self and future self. Once we have a firm grasp on our sense of self, we will create an “alter ego,” which is commonly used by high performers to execute at their best.

This week, we turn our attention to time and energy. Both are important, but you will come to learn that one is slightly more important. It is often not what you would expect. This idea is a game changer. In addition to managing time and energy, we will work to understand when you work best. Timing matters. Once we know this, we can strategically plan our day to take advantage of peaks and troughs that inevitably occur.

Our final week in the course examines how we see the world and what influences this view for each individual. The mechanisms that drive our view of the world are mental models, schema, cognitive biases, among others. With an understanding of how these psychological principles work and why, you will see the world, and those we interact with, differently.