Kate Worrall

Kate Worrall

Organisational Development Specialist, City of Newcastle

Alumni: Sydney 2019

In our 11069NAT Diploma of Positive Psychology and Wellbeing we always talk about the ripple effect; starting with self and creating a ripple out there in the world - whatever that may mean for each person.

In this interview, one of our Diploma of Positive Psychology and Wellbeing graduate shares her completely life-changing experience of the course, and how it set her up to fulfil her goal of publishing a book!

What drew you to complete the Diploma of Positive Psychology and Wellbeing?

I was drawn to the course because of my work in the organisational culture and leadership space. I had noticed a shift towards the introduction of ‘positive psychology’ concepts in these areas and wanted to learn more. When I studied psychology at University a decade ago, the focus was very much deficit-based. I was super excited to find a programme that covered the practical, evidence-based research into helping people thrive.

What was your experience during the Diploma of Positive Psychology and Wellbeing?

The course was fantastic. While my initial interest in the course was from a work perspective, many of the concepts were equally applicable to my personal life, and as a parent. The learnings around meaning and purpose really resonated with me which took me by surprise as it wasn’t an area I had focused on previously. Some of the key theories that I use on a regular basis both at work and home include Strengths, Broaden & Build and Mindset theory.

How are you spreading your positive ripples, and how has the Diploma of Positive Psychology and Wellbeing helped you achieve this?

In addition to utilising the concepts in my work on leadership and culture, during the positive goal setting exercise I was inspired to set a personal goal of publishing a book. This was something I had long thought about, yet never pursued as I wasn’t an ‘author’. Drawing on my strengths and Carol Dweck’s mindset theory, I realised that the only way to become an author was to write and publish a book! In August 2020, one month after completing my Diploma, I published my first book.

‘Little Reminders’ is an illustrated children’s storybook designed for families to customise with photos of a loved one who has passed away. The book has since been recognised by the National Centre for Childhood Grief and used by school counsellors and support organisations such as Lifeline. In October I published an accompanying journal and colouring book to help children record memories and process their grief. With copies sold in the US and UK, I am proud to say that thanks to the Diploma of Positive Psychology I am now an international author!