This article is inspired by insights from a conversation with Dr. Paul Jenkins, positivity psychologist, featured on the Power of After Show. Live on Purpose is a timely conversation about how we navigate life’s transitions with intention rather than reaction with Dr. Paul Jenkins. He has spent decades helping individuals and families shift their mindset, reclaim a sense of purpose, and create lasting peace—especially during seasons of change. Together, we explore why transitions often challenge our thinking, how mindset shapes our emotional and physical responses, and what the science of positivity tells us about resilience, hope, and forward movement. When life feels uncertain, learning how to lead your thoughts can make all the difference in how—and how well—you move forward.
In seasons of transition—mid-career, mid-life, or moments of unexpected change—one of the most important questions we can ask is: How do I move forward with clarity and purpose? In this article, we cover Jenkin’s “Science of Positivity,” mindsets in transitions, the Positivity Model with application for those at midlife and also a bonus of parents with adult children. We end with some practical tools and daily habits.
One: The Science of Positivity
At its core, the science of positivity is not about forced optimism or ignoring life’s challenges. Instead, it is grounded in psychological principles that explain how our thoughts shape our emotional experiences. One of the most important ideas Dr. Jenkins teaches is this: circumstances are neutral. While this may feel counterintuitive, especially during difficult situations, it highlights a critical truth—our experience is shaped not just by what happens, but by how we interpret what happens.
Our brains are constantly evaluating and judging our circumstances. We compare what is happening to what we think should be happening. This process is automatic and deeply wired into us for survival. However, it also means that two people can experience the same situation and feel completely different emotions.
This is where the “science” comes in. Research in psychology shows that our emotional responses are directly tied to our thoughts. When we become aware of this, we gain a powerful opportunity: the ability to choose how we interpret our experiences. I can choose to be grateful and focus on what has been positive in my week or be depressed with a focus on a “worst case scenario.” Many find themselves in this cycle with political or relationship shifts.
Two: Living on Purpose
Living on purpose means moving from reaction to intention. Instead of being driven by circumstances, emotions, or habits, we begin to make conscious choices about how we think, act, and respond. I have emphasized in my work how important core values are for purposeful living. If our values are clearly stated—both personal and professional—it becomes easier to align our purpose and forward momentum. (See the appendix of Stop Circling for focus on Core Values)
For many in mid-career or mid-life, this shift becomes essential. Life may no longer follow a predictable script. Careers change, children grow up, relationships evolve, and new questions emerge. Without intention, it’s easy to feel stuck or directionless. I have known many women who go through a period of “loss” when the kids move on out of the home on their own. Many relationships also shift when kids are grown with different goals and focus.
Dr. Jenkins emphasizes that awareness precedes choice. When we become aware of our thinking patterns, we can begin to choose differently. Living on purpose is not about controlling everything—it’s about taking ownership of how we respond to what we cannot control.
It also means aligning our actions with what matters most—which are our core values. Purpose is not something we discover once; it is something we continually create through daily decisions.
Three: Mindset in Transitions and Turning Points
Transitions often bring uncertainty, and uncertainty triggers the brain’s natural tendency toward fear and anxiety. We begin to imagine worst-case scenarios, and those imagined outcomes can feel just as real as actual events.
Dr. Jenkins explains that the mind operates in two key processes: evaluation and creation. Evaluation is how we judge what is happening right now. Creation is how we imagine what might happen next.
When we evaluate our circumstances as “bad,” we may experience discouragement or depression. When we imagine a negative future, we experience anxiety. These emotional states are not random—they are directly tied to how we think. However, this also means we can shift them.
By intentionally evaluating our current situation differently—acknowledging that it could be worse-- or identifying what is still working—we can move toward a sense of peace. By imagining positive possibilities for the future, we can cultivate hope instead of fear.
This is especially powerful during major life transitions. Whether starting a new career, launching a business, or redefining identity after years in a specific role, mindset becomes the foundation for forward movement.
Four: The Positivity Model and Midlife Application
Dr. Jenkins’ Positivity Model centers around two core processes: evaluation and creation. Understanding these gives us a practical way to navigate life’s challenges.
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Evaluation: How we judge what is; Creation: How we imagine what will be.
These two processes determine our emotional experience. Negative evaluation leads to discouragement. Negative creation leads to anxiety. Positive evaluation leads to peace. Positive creation leads to hope.
For individuals in mid-career or mid-life, this model is especially relevant. This stage often includes shifting roles, changing priorities, and increased responsibility. It may also include uncertainty about the future.
Instead of becoming overwhelmed, the model offers a simple framework:
• Notice your thoughts.
• Recognize that your interpretation is not the only option.
• Choose a more empowering perspective.
This is not about denying reality. It is about expanding it. When applied consistently, the Positivity Model becomes a tool for resilience. It allows individuals to move from feeling stuck to feeling empowered.
Five: Mindset for Parents of Adult Children
One of the most challenging transitions in life is parenting adult children. Expectations change, roles shift, and relationships evolve in ways that can feel uncertain or even painful. A common struggle is judgment—believing that a child’s choices are not what they “should” be. This creates tension, frustration, and emotional distance.
Using the Positivity Model, parents can step back and recognize that their child’s life simply “is what it is.” From there, they can choose how to respond. Instead of focusing on what is wrong, they can look for what is still good. This shift does not change the situation immediately, but it changes the energy and approach within the relationship.
Dr. Jenkins suggests that when we show up with peace instead of tension, we influence the relationship in a positive way. Our mindset affects how we communicate, how we listen, and how we connect. This approach creates space for healthier, more supportive relationships over time.
Practical Tools and Daily Habits
To apply these concepts, Dr. Jenkins offers simple yet powerful tools:
1. Gratitude Power-Up
Instead of listing only easy things to be grateful for, focus on challenges. Ask: What can I appreciate within this difficulty? This strengthens mental resilience and shifts perspective.
2. Metacognition
Take time to think about your thinking. Notice your judgments and assumptions. Awareness is the first step toward change.
3. Better by 8
Each day, identify one small action you can take to improve a situation by the end of the day. (by 8 o-clock!) This keeps progress practical and manageable.
4. Daily Reflection
Spend a few minutes reviewing your thoughts and choices. Ask: Did I react or respond with intention?
5. Consistency Over Perfection
Small, repeated actions create lasting change. Focus on progress, not perfection
Conclusion
Living on purpose with positivity is not about avoiding challenges—it is about navigating them with clarity and intention. By understanding how our minds work, we gain the ability to shift our perspective, influence our emotions, and take meaningful action.
For those in mid-career or mid-life, this approach is especially powerful. It allows us to leverage our experience, adapt to change, and step into the next chapter with confidence.
Your circumstances may not always be within your control. But your mindset is. And that makes all the difference.Additional Resources
Find out more about Dr. Paul Jenkins and his many resources at: https://DrPaulJenkins.com
Live on Purpose Radio: https://liveonpurposeradio.com
The Summit: Journey to Hero Mountain by Deborah Johnson
Power of After: What's Next Can Be Your Most Purposeful Chapter by Deborah Johnson
Hero Mountain Summit: Power of After 5-Step Framework: A 5-month entrepreneurial mentorship designed to help mid-life professionals break free from stagnation and rise toward purposeful success.
FREE Downloads: Goal Setting Worksheets ; Power of After 7 Ingredients for Success Guide
FREE Resources and links: https://GoalsForYourLife.com/DJWorks
YouTube Podcast Playlist (Subscribe!): Women at Halftime/Power of After
- about dr. pauljenkins
Dr. Paul Jenkins is a psychologist, speaker, and author helping individuals and families shift mindset, reclaim purpose, and create lasting peace—especially in life’s transitions. He blends science-backed strategies with real-world applications so you can achieve lasting happiness and success. Through his work, thousands have reprogrammed their thinking and transformed their lives.
When life feels uncertain, learning how to lead your thoughts can make all the difference in how—and how well—you move forward.
deborah johnson
Thought Leader, Keynote Speaker, Author
If you are interested in growing and learning, check out our online courses here: Online Learning
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