Professional Documents
Culture Documents
BECOME
A DIVA
the workbook
To be a diva is to be a boss ass bitch – a phrase that embodies power,
confidence, and unapologetic boldness. The word 'diva' historically
refers to a celebrated female singer, a woman of rare, outstanding
talent. However, its modern interpretation transcends the realms of art
and entertainment. Today, being a diva is about embodying strength,
empowerment, and self-assurance in every aspect of life. It's about
being the master of your own universe, commanding respect, and living
life on your own terms.
At the core of the diva ethos is confidence – a deep, unwavering belief in
oneself. Confidence is not merely feeling good about how you look; it’s
about trusting in your capabilities, embracing your unique qualities, and
walking into any room knowing you belong there. A diva’s confidence is
infectious; it inspires and uplifts those around her. It’s the kind of
confidence that comes from knowing your worth and not being afraid to
assert it.
Power is another cornerstone of the diva identity. This isn’t about power
over others; it’s about personal power – the ability to influence the
direction of your life, make decisions that align with your values, and
stand up for yourself in challenging situations. A diva knows her power
and uses it wisely. She is assertive without being aggressive, firm yet
compassionate. She understands that her power lies not just in her
ability to speak, but also in her ability to listen and empathize.
Empowerment is the diva’s mantra. It’s about taking control of your life,
your body, your decisions, and your future. It’s about owning your story –
the triumphs and the setbacks – and using it to fuel your journey
forward. Empowerment means not waiting for someone else to give you
permission to live your best life. It's about giving that permission to
yourself. A diva empowers herself through continuous learning, self-
reflection, and by surrounding herself with people who lift her higher.
To be a diva is also to embrace your femininity in all its forms. It’s about
celebrating your womanhood, whatever that means for you. It’s about
being fierce and fearless, soft and strong, all at once. It’s about
understanding that femininity is not a weakness; it's a profound source of
strength. A diva uses her femininity as a powerful tool in her arsenal – to
charm, to influence, to lead.
Mirror Work: Begin your journey by engaging in a power pose for two minutes.
Stand in front of the mirror, feet apart, hands on your hips, chin up, and gaze
fixed on your reflection. This stance, rooted in Amy
Cuddy's research, suggests that body language profoundly influences our
psychology, boosting confidence and reducing stress.
Booster Question: Recall a time when you felt unstoppable. What were
you doing? How did it feel? Write this down and reflect on the qualities
that made you feel powerful.
Music & Movement: Create a playlist of songs that make you feel
empowered and alive. Consider tracks like "Run the World (Girls)" by
Beyoncé or "Roar" by Katy Perry. As the music plays, move your body
freely. Dance, sway, or simply walk with attitude around the room. Music
has the power to elevate mood and confidence, as numerous studies
have shown a link between music, movement, and increased dopamine
levels.
Mirror Work: Stand before the mirror and gaze into your own eyes. Begin a
dialogue with yourself, starting with the phrase, "I love you because..." This
practice draws on the principles of self-compassion advocated by Dr. Kristin
Neff. Studies show that speaking to ourselves with kindness, as we would to a
loved one, enhances our ability to cope with life's challenges and nurtures our
emotional well-being.
Affirmation: "I am a sanctuary of love and kindness, for myself and
others." Embrace this affirmation, letting it resonate with your heart and
mind.
Booster Question: What are the qualities you love most about yourself?
List at least five, considering not just physical attributes but also
character traits, talents, and accomplishments.
Homework: Create a self-love journal. Each day, write down three things
you appreciate about yourself. This practice, supported by research in
gratitude and positive psychology, helps shift focus from negative self-
criticism to appreciation and acceptance.
Day Three: Building Professional Confidence and Vision
Mirror Work: Dress in your most confidence-inspiring outfit, stand before the
mirror, and visualize yourself achieving a significant professional
goal. Visualization techniques, as shown in studies by Dr. Richard Wiseman, can
enhance performance and actualize success.
Mirror Work: Stand in front of the mirror wearing something that makes you feel
confident and beautiful. Look at your reflection and
acknowledge each part of your body with gratitude. Starting from your feet,
moving upwards, express thanks for the strength and experiences each part
has given you. This practice is inspired by body positivity movements and
psychological research indicating that gratitude towards one's body improves
body image and overall self-esteem.
Affirmation: "My body is a magnificent vessel that carries me through life with
grace and strength." This affirmation encourages a positive and respectful
relationship with your body.
Booster Question: What physical features do you love most about yourself and
why? Reflect on how these features have contributed to your life experiences.
Empowering Activity: Engage in a physical activity that you enjoy, be it dancing,
yoga, or a brisk walk. Exercise is not just about physical health; it's a celebration
of what your body can do. Numerous studies have shown that regular physical
activity boosts mood, self-esteem, and body image.
Homework: Write a love letter to your body, acknowledging its beauty, strength,
and the journey it has been through. This exercise helps in building a kinder and
more compassionate view of your physical self.
Day Five: Nurturing Emotional Intelligence and Empathy
Mirror Work: Look into your eyes in the mirror and recall a recent
situation where you experienced strong emotions. Acknowledge these feelings
and tell yourself, “It’s okay to feel this way.” This practice is grounded in the
principles of emotional intelligence, which involves recognizing, understanding,
and managing our own emotions while empathizing with others'.
Affirmation: "I navigate my emotions with understanding and grace, and I offer
empathy to those around me." Embrace this affirmation to enhance your
emotional intelligence and empathy.
Emotional Mapping: Create a journal entry describing how you deal with various
emotions. Write down the emotions you find challenging and strategies that help
you cope with them. Research in emotional
regulation suggests that being aware of and strategically managing emotions is
crucial for mental health and interpersonal relationships.
Mirror Work: Stand in front of the mirror and practice saying “No” firmly but
politely. Reflect on your right to set boundaries and protect your energy. This
exercise is based on psychological research highlighting
the importance of assertiveness in personal boundary setting for mental well-
being and self-respect.
Affirmation: "I set healthy boundaries with ease and assert my needs
with confidence." This affirmation reinforces your right to personal space
and respect.
Booster Question: Identify a recent situation where you wished you had
set a boundary. How would you handle it differently now?
Boundary Blueprint: Write down areas in your life where you need to
establish or strengthen boundaries. This could be in relationships, work,
or personal habits. Setting clear boundaries is crucial for self-care and
maintaining healthy relationships.
Homework: Communicate a boundary to someone in a respectful and
assertive manner. Notice how it feels to express your needs clearly.
Remember, setting boundaries is a skill that gets easier with practice.
Day Seven: Celebrating Your Unique Talents and Skills
Mirror Work: Look into your reflection and acknowledge your unique talents and
skills. Say out loud, “My talents, [name them], make me who I am, and I am
proud of them.” This exercise draws on the principles of positive psychology,
emphasizing the importance of recognizing and valuing our unique abilities.
Affirmation: "I embrace my unique talents and use them to enrich my life
and the lives of others." This helps in acknowledging and appreciating
your individuality.
Booster Question: What are three talents or skills you are most proud
of? How have these shaped your life and experiences?
Talent Showcase: Plan an activity that allows you to use and showcase
one of your talents. It could be painting, writing, public speaking,
cooking, or anything that lets your skills shine.
Affirmation: "My words are seeds of positivity that bloom into a garden of
self-worth." This affirmation reinforces the importance of nurturing
thoughts that enhance self-esteem.
Mirror Work: While looking at your reflection, express three things you
are grateful for about yourself. Gratitude practices, as shown in
numerous studies, enhance well-being and foster a positive outlook on life.
Affirmation: "I am thankful for my journey and all it has taught me." This
centers on the idea that every experience, good or bad, contributes to
personal growth.
Mirror Work: Look into your eyes and say, “I am worthy of meaningful
and fulfilling relationships.” Recognize your value in social connections
and your right to be respected and loved.
Affirmation: "I attract and nurture relationships that uplift and support
me." This helps build a mindset that seeks out and appreciates positive
social interactions.
Affirmation: "I make informed and empowering financial choices." This centers
on developing a positive and proactive approach to managing finances.
Booster Question: What is one financial goal you have for the next year? Why is
this goal important to you?
Mirror Work: Look into your eyes and affirm, “I gracefully adapt to
change and grow from it.” Embrace the concept that change, although
sometimes challenging, is a catalyst for growth and new opportunities.
Affirmation: "I am resilient and adapt to change with ease and confidence." This
focuses on building resilience and the ability to
navigate life’s changes positively.
Affirmation: "I honor my body and mind with rest, nourishment, and self- care."
This affirmation reinforces the importance of looking after your physical and
mental health.
Booster Question: What self-care practice makes you feel most rejuvenated and
happy?
Self-Care Plan: Create a self-care plan that includes activities for physical,
mental, and emotional well-being. This could include exercise, meditation,
hobbies, or time with loved ones.
Mirror Work: Smile at yourself and acknowledge, “Every small step I take is a
victory towards my greater goals.” Understand that progress is made up of
small, consistent actions.
Affirmation: "I celebrate every step forward, no matter how small, for
they lead to great achievements." This helps recognize and appreciate the
significance of small accomplishments.
Booster Question: What small victory did you achieve recently, and how did it
contribute to your larger goals?
Victory Journal: Start a victory journal. Each day, write down a small victory or
progress you made. This could be related to personal goals, work, relationships,
or self-improvement.
Affirmation: "I live in the present moment, fully aware and engaged." This
affirmation encourages you to embrace the power of now and the clarity
it brings.
Booster Question: What are some moments where you find your mind
wandering? How can you bring more mindfulness to these situations?
Mindfulness Activity: Practice a short mindfulness meditation. Focus on
your breath and gently bring your attention back whenever your mind
wanders. This practice enhances focus and reduces anxiety.
Mirror Work: Look at yourself and ask, “What am I passionate about? What
gives my life purpose?” Reflect on these questions and observe
the emotions they evoke.
Booster Question: What activities make you lose track of time? How do these
relate to your sense of purpose?
Homework: Research ways to integrate your passions into your daily life or
career. This could involve starting a hobby, volunteering, or even a career
change.
Day Eighteen: Strengthening Resilience and Overcoming
Challenges
Affirmation: "I turn challenges into opportunities for growth." This mindset
helps transform obstacles into stepping stones for personal
development.
Booster Question: What is one challenge you currently face, and what
can you learn from it?
Resilience Building: Reflect on past challenges you've overcome. Write
down the strategies you used and how they made you stronger.
Understanding your resilience patterns helps build confidence in
handling future difficulties.
Homework: Create an action plan for a current challenge. Break it down
into manageable steps and start tackling them one by one. This
approach fosters a proactive attitude towards problem-solving.
Day Nineteen: Enhancing Communication Skills
Mirror Work: Practice expressing your thoughts and feelings confidently. Look
into the mirror and articulate a recent thought or feeling you had, using clear
and assertive language.
Mirror Work: Smile at yourself and reflect on what brings you joy. Say
out loud, “I embrace and create joy in my life.”
Affirmation: "I choose happiness and find joy in the simple things." This
affirmation encourages a positive outlook and appreciation for life's pleasures.
Booster Question: What are five things that made you happy this week?
Joyful Activities: Plan and engage in activities that bring you happiness. This
could be as simple as reading a book, spending time in nature, or enjoying a
hobby. Activities that bring joy are essential for mental health and overall well-
being.
Homework: Create a 'joy list' of activities, people, and experiences that make
you happy. Aim to incorporate at least one item from this list into your daily
routine.
Day Twenty-One: Embracing Realistic Optimism
Mirror Work: Stand confidently, make eye contact with yourself, and
acknowledge both your strengths and areas for growth. State, “I see my reality
clearly and approach it with optimism.” This exercise is about balancing
optimism with a realistic understanding of yourself and your circumstances, a
concept supported by research in positive psychology.
Realistic Goal Setting: Set a goal for the next month. Ensure it is
challenging yet achievable, and plan concrete steps to reach it. This
approach, grounded in SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable,
Relevant, Time-bound) goal-setting, enhances the likelihood of success
and maintains motivation.
Mirror Work: Focus on your reflection and practice deep, slow breathing for two
minutes. With each breath, say, “I breathe in peace, I breathe out tension.” This
practice draws from mindfulness techniques that
emphasize the importance of breath in regulating emotions and inducing calm.
Booster Question: What is one financial habit you would like to improve or
develop?
Homework: Review your current financial status. Create a budget, track your
spending, or set a financial goal. Focus on taking actionable steps towards
financial empowerment.
Day Twenty-Four: Nurturing Healthy Relationships
Affirmation: "I attract and maintain relationships that are healthy, respectful,
and enriching." This focuses on setting standards for the quality of relationships
you deserve.
Mirror Work: Face the mirror, and with an open and accepting
expression, say, “I welcome change as an opportunity for growth.” Embrace the
idea that change, though sometimes uncomfortable, is a catalyst for personal
development.
Mirror Work: Stand before the mirror, look into your eyes, and reflect on your
recent emotional experiences. Acknowledge each emotion and say, “I accept
and understand my emotions.” This practice is based on developing emotional
intelligence, the ability to identify, understand, and manage emotions.
Mirror Work: Gaze into your reflection and ask, “What activities bring me joy and
satisfaction?” Embrace the idea of exploring new interests or deepening
existing hobbies.
Affirmation: "I honor my interests and hobbies as they bring joy and balance to
my life." This reinforces the importance of having pursuits outside of work and
responsibilities.
Homework: Research and plan how you can incorporate more time for your
hobbies into your weekly schedule. Consistently engaging in enjoyable activities
is crucial for a balanced and fulfilling life.
Day Twenty-Eight: Practicing Assertiveness and Self-Advocacy
Mirror Work: Stand tall and speak out loud a personal leadership mantra, such
as “I am a leader who inspires and empowers.” Leadership is not just for the
workplace; it applies to various aspects of life.
Booster Question: Identify qualities you admire in a leader you respect. How can
you embody these qualities in your own life?
Mirror Work: Look back at the past thirty days. Reflect on your journey in front of
the mirror, acknowledging your growth and the work you've put into this
program.
Affirmation: "I am proud of my journey and excited for the future." This
affirmation celebrates your progress and sets a positive tone for continued
growth.
Booster Question: What are the top three lessons you've learned about yourself
in the last month?
Homework: Create a vision board or write a letter to your future self, outlining
your hopes, dreams, and plans for the next phase of your journey. This acts as a
motivational tool and a reminder of your aspirations and the path you’re on.