How We Blossom!
Karen and Jay celebrate the idea of flourishing – achieving happiness and success across the many aspects of your life.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to truly flourish? How it would make you feel? Even what it means ‘to flourish?’ Well, it’s a pretty interesting concept. And essentially, flourishing is all about a balanced success and feeling of well-being across all the various important dimensions of your life.
Not just thriving or achieving in one area – but achieving a state of well-being across the board. In essence, flourishing is the aggregate of all life experiences when every aspect of your life is going well. Not necessarily all that easy to do. But when accomplished and when you find yourself in that wonderful state of overall well-being – what a terrific place to be.
To be more precise, to flourish is often thought to include doing or being well in the following five broad domains of human life: (i) happiness and life satisfaction; (ii) health, both mental and physical; (iii) meaning and purpose; (iv) character and virtue; and (v) close social relationships.
In fact, flourishing in life refers to a state of thriving, where an individual experiences personal growth, fulfillment, and well-being. It’s more than just feeling happy; it encompasses a deeper sense of purpose, meaning, and connection to others. Flourishing is often seen as the ultimate goal of human existence, where people not only feel good but also function optimally in various areas of life, such as relationships, work, and personal growth. The concept is rooted in positive psychology, emphasizing strengths, resilience, and the pursuit of a balanced, meaningful life.
So, let’s apply this concept to real-life. One example of flourishing might be seen in someone who has a strong sense of purpose in their career. For instance, a teacher who finds meaning in shaping young minds experiences flourishing by feeling a deep connection to their work. Despite the challenges and hard days, they are motivated by their impact on students' lives. They aren’t just working to get a paycheck; they are driven by the fulfillment they get from helping others succeed. Flourishing in this context comes from aligning one’s skills, passions, and purpose with the needs of society. I suspect you might actually have experienced such a teacher when you were back in school.
In personal relationships, flourishing can be seen in friendships or family dynamics that are built on mutual respect, love, and support. Imagine a couple who, despite busy schedules, makes time for regular date nights, meaningful conversations, and emotional check-ins. These behaviors contribute to a flourishing relationship, where both partners feel valued and supported. Flourishing in relationships isn’t just about avoiding conflict but about nurturing positive connections that help individuals grow and feel secure. Easy to aspire to – not necessarily all that easy to achieve on a consistent basis.
Another example of flourishing is in physical health and well-being. Someone who regularly exercises, eats a balanced diet, and makes time for rest and relaxation may not only feel physically well but will also experience an enhanced quality of life. Their attention to physical well-being helps them feel more energized and capable of handling daily stresses. For example, a person who runs marathons for the joy of pushing their limits and staying fit may feel a sense of accomplishment and vitality, which contributes to a broader sense of flourishing. I know that in my life, when I can work out or run, it has a ‘multiplier effect’ on so many other aspects of my well-being.
And finally, flourishing is about mental and emotional resilience. Consider someone who practices mindfulness and gratitude regularly, helping them stay grounded even in difficult times. By focusing on what they can control and appreciating life’s small joys, they maintain a positive outlook. This mindset helps them bounce back from adversity, stay motivated, and remain optimistic about the future, demonstrating flourishing in mental health. It’s about cultivating inner strength and perspective that allows for growth and contentment even when life throws challenges your way.
So, as you go into this weekend and the week ahead, please take a moment to reflect. Are you flourishing? Experiencing well-being across the board? Are there some areas where you’d like to improve? Give it a thought – and then go ahead and take whatever action that will help you get there. You’ll be amazed by how good it will make you feel.
Pickleball: The Fast-Growing Phenomenon – Helping People Flourish!
Pickleball is expanding exponentially – and as it does so, it is helping millions of individuals flourish in their daily lives. At the same time, it is an activity that itself is flourishing.
By way of background, pickleball is a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, and has rapidly become a national sensation, drawing people of all ages and skill levels to its courts. Its simple rules, small court size, and low-impact nature make it accessible to players of varying physical abilities, which has helped fuel its widespread popularity. Unlike more intense sports, pickleball offers a balanced mix of fitness and fun, allowing people to socialize while staying active. This combination has contributed to the sport’s exponential growth, particularly in retirement communities and recreation centers.
In New Hampshire, the sport's popularity mirrors the national trend. Communities across the state have embraced pickleball, with new courts popping up in both urban areas and rural towns. The sport has been a great way to bring together residents, from young adults to seniors, creating a sense of community around fitness. Local tournaments have also started to emerge, with cities like Nashua and Manchester hosting events that attract players from all over New England. These competitions not only highlight the state’s growing interest in pickleball but also contribute to local tourism and economic development.
The rise of pickleball can be attributed, in part, to its unique ability to foster social connections. With its fast-paced yet less physically demanding gameplay, pickleball encourages players to engage with one another in a friendly and interactive environment. It's not uncommon to see players strike up conversations between games or form long-lasting friendships on the court. In New Hampshire’s small, tight-knit communities, this has been especially beneficial, as pickleball offers a new way for neighbors to connect and for newcomers to integrate into local life.
Looking forward, the growth of pickleball shows no signs of slowing down. New Hampshire is set to continue expanding its offerings, with more dedicated pickleball facilities planned in the near future. In Boston, it’s reported that one in three tennis courts now include a pickleball court. As more residents discover the sport’s accessibility and enjoy its mix of competition and camaraderie, pickleball will likely continue to strengthen community bonds while contributing to the health and well-being of people across the state and the nation.
A good friend of mine has a pickleball court in his backyard which I suspect is one of the reasons he’s won a number of pickleball tournaments! Not too long ago I stopped by his house, and he invited me to play – which I had never done before. For someone who has played tennis, racquetball and handball, I was able to pick up on it pretty quickly and found it to be a very enjoyable experience. So, I encourage everyone to find a court and give it a try. Go swing a paddle – I think there’s a good chance that you’ll like it so much that it will become part of your weekly routine.
Tunnel to Towers - A Growing, Flourishing Movement
How do we honor a hero without using his name in the title of a cause? By naming the cause after his heroic act.
Stephen Gerard Siller was a firefighter assigned to Brooklyn’s Squad 1. On September 11, 2001, he had just finished his shift and was heading to meet his brothers for a round of golf. When he heard over the scanner that a plane had hit the North Tower of the World Trade Center, he immediately called his wife and asked her to tell his brothers he would catch up with them later. Without hesitation, he went back to work.
Stephen grabbed his gear and drove his truck to the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel, only to find it closed due to security concerns. But that didn’t stop him. He strapped 60 pounds of gear to his back and ran on foot through the tunnel toward the Twin Towers, where he ultimately sacrificed his life to save others. He had a wonderful family and a promising future, yet he willingly ran into harm's way.
Stephen was raised as a Franciscan Christian, and his life reflected the core philosophy of St. Francis of Assisi: “While we have time, let us do good.” This belief undoubtedly guided him in his final moments. As John 15:13 says, “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” Stephen considered the people he served every day—his fellow citizens—as friends, and he acted selflessly to save as many as possible.
Frank Siller, Stephen’s brother, founded the nonprofit Tunnel to Towers in Stephen’s honor.
The mission of Tunnel to Towers is to provide mortgage-free homes to deserving veterans and first responders. To date, more than 1,200 homes have been provided or are in the process of being built. In addition, a scholarship program was established in memory of their brother Russell. This program provides college funding for children of Tunnel to Towers home recipients who contribute their time and effort toward raising awareness of community-based issues.
Altogether, more than $500 million has been raised in support of veterans, first responders, and their families. Additionally, more than 650,000 people have been educated by the "Never Forget 9/11" mobile exhibit.
To learn more about this incredible organization and its mission, visit Tunnel to Towers.
Positive Profile of the Week: Scott Brown – Truly Flourishing - Senator, Ambassador, Musician, Athlete and Much More!
This week we are delighted to highlight a great leader in the Granite State – who truly lives and embodies what it means to flourish – to achieve well-being in multiple areas of his life – our wonderful friend, Scott Brown.
Scott has embraced a vibrant and multi-faceted career. A true Renaissance man, Scott’s passion for public service has included not only tenure in the United States Senate but also representing our great nation as U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand and Samoa.
Meanwhile, Scott’s love of music has provided the impetus for success as a musician – where he leads a great band – known as ‘Scott Brown and the Diplomats – that mixes classic rock and country. Performing live with his band, Scott shows his natural charisma on stage, entertaining crowds with a mix of covers and original tunes.
Beyond public service and music, Scott is also a competitive athlete – competing and winning triathlons. In fact, he can be seen working out early in the mornings and staying in top notch physical shape.
At home, Brown and his wife, Gail Huff, have formed a dynamic partnership. Gail, a successful journalist and television personality, continues to shine in her own career while supporting Scott in his various endeavors as well. The couple, known for their close bond, is frequently seen together at public events, embodying the power of teamwork and shared values. Meanwhile, they are the parents of two wonderful daughters, Ayla and Arianna.
We congratulate Scott on his achievements and celebrate his ability to truly flourish across multiple aspects of his life!
Quote of the Week: Flourishing
Flourishing is not a static state; it requires daily effort to cultivate well-being, positive relationships, and a sense of purpose." -Martin Seligman
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