In this heartfelt episode of Her Unshakeable Confidence, hosts Simone and Olivia Knego sit down with psychologist, speaker, and author Dr. Peggy DeLong. Together, they explore how gratitude can dramatically impact our mental health, relationships, and self-confidence.
First, Dr. Peggy shares her personal story of loss and resilience. Then, she describes her powerful pivot from forensic psychology to becoming “The Gratitude Psychologist.” This transition is truly inspiring. Finally, she reveals how simple daily gratitude practices—like writing letters or savoring small joys—can boost happiness and build emotional resilience.
Additionally, these practices can even ease grief. Her discussion also unpacks the surprising science behind gratitude, this includes research-backed ways it lifts mood and diminishes negativity. When discussing gratitude, the science proves its benefits.
Whether you’re navigating life transitions, looking to strengthen your confidence, or simply seeking more joy, this episode offers practical tools and inspiration. It helps you tune into what really matters. Start with gratitude as a keystone.
Actionable Takeaways
✅ Gratitude isn’t just a feeling—it’s an action. In fact, something as simple as sending a quick text or writing a heartfelt letter can meaningfully boost your mental health.
✅ You don’t even need to practice gratitude every single day to feel the benefits. For example, writing three gratitude letters over three weeks can boost your mood for months afterward.
✅ After all, confidence is born from alignment—when your values line up with your actions and desires.
✅ Courage comes before confidence; do it scared, and confidence will follow.
✅ True confidence doesn’t mean you don’t care what others think. It means you care, but you don’t let that worry stop you from moving forward.
Chapters
00:00 – Welcome and Introducing Dr. Peggy DeLong
06:40 – From Loss to Gratitude: Peggy’s Journey After Tragedy
12:00 – Why Gratitude Is a Daily Mental Health Superpower
19:25 – The Science Behind Gratitude Letters
27:00 – Real Stories: How Gratitude Deepens Connection
33:00 – Grief and Healing Through Handwritten Notes
36:50 – What Confidence Really Means (According to Peggy)
40:00 – Advice From Peggy’s Mother: Love Is Always the Right Answer
42:00 – Final Thoughts and Where to Find Dr. Peggy
About Dr. Peggy DeLong
Known as “The Gratitude Psychologist,” Dr. Peggy DeLong helps people reconnect with joy, especially in difficult times. She uses gratitude, nature, and resilience-based practices. Although she was a former forensic psychologist, Peggy now writes, speaks, and designs mental health support bracelets that spread positivity and meaning. She is the author of Feel the Grief, Keep the Love and leads programs that inspire emotional healing and confident living.
Connect with Dr. Peggy DeLong:
🌎 Website: drpeggydelong.com
🎁 Free Resource: The Grateful Day—5 daily exercises in under 5 minutes: drpeggydelong.com
📸 Instagram: @the.gratitude.psychologist
📘 Facebook: Dr. Peggy DeLong LinkedIn: Peggy Doherty DeLong, Psy.D.
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