Reflecting on the Dependable Strengths Facilitator Training
By Cindy Ernharth, MACCA President and Past Chair
Student Development Specialist, Harford Community College

I entered the Dependable Strengths Facilitator Training with some trepidation. Taking time to reflect deeply on oneself is not something we often do—and certainly not something I’ve always found to be within my comfort zone. Our first pre-work assignment was daunting: define fifteen good experiences in your life. Not just events that happened to you, but experiences you actively contributed to and felt good about. These could be from any part of life—personal, professional, or otherwise.

The real impact began when we shared these experiences with each other. That’s when the magic unfolded. Through listening, reflecting, and engaging, we discovered not only our own dependable strengths but helped others uncover theirs as well. It was powerful and affirming.

What struck me most was how applicable this process is—personally and professionally. For me, it has opened a new path toward personal fulfillment and clarified the next steps in my journey. We didn’t just identify skills we’re good at (and might not even enjoy); we uncovered strengths that give us joy, that energize us, that feel aligned with who we truly are.

Each of us left the training with a personalized Dependable Strengths Report—a living, evolving document that serves as a compass for our futures. We now have tools and insights we can share with the groups and individuals we serve, enabling others to unlock their own potential in a meaningful way.

If you have the chance to participate in a Dependable Strengths Facilitator training, I strongly encourage you to do so. There are many online options available, and MACCA would be happy to host again in the future.

As several participants shared:

·         “It’s difficult to hear your strengths but empowering to own them.”

·         “Identifying my Dependable Strengths instead of skills helped me go from being stuck to unstuck.”

·         “Focusing on what brings you life can radically reorient your sense of self and goals.”

·         “This process is deep and vulnerable—and opened so many areas of growth.”

·         “Your strengths are holistic descriptions of who you are and what you offer to others.”

The experience was truly transformative. I’m grateful to have shared this journey with such an insightful and supportive group—and I look forward to bringing this work into the lives of others. Thank you to our facilitators, Ann Scholl Fiedler, Master Trainer and Jeremy Brown.