POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY, VIRTUES IN ACTION AND CHARACTER STRENGTHS: IMPROVED SELF-AWARENESS
For many years I struggled with a number of character flaws. I’ve still got them. But, through a mixture of good fortune in meeting some great mentors, and professional development , I’ve gained a much better understanding of myself, and how to better approach life.
For me, the change trigger was the discovery of the work of Viktor Frankl, and then the rediscovery of Stephen Covey’s popular work. Then came a trio of related game changers: positive psychology, character strengths and mental toughness, all grounded in strong science.
What understanding character strengths did for me was to enable me to look at my flaws differently, but better still to demonstrate to me what my strengths truly are, and how to build on them.
Taking the VIA Inventory of Character Strengths (VIA Survey) at viacharacter.org opened a new world up for me. It significantly increased my self-awareness
I became aware that I had all 24 strengths within me. I was delighted to see that my top five ‘signature’ strengths were things I recognised as good about myself: creativity, humour, kindness, leadership and love. I also became aware that my flaws were represented in some of my less highly ranked strengths.
I know that you will benefit from a simple exercise, designed by Dr Ryan Niemiec of the VIA Institute on Character:
- The VIA Survey takes around 10 minutes to complete, but offers a wealth of benefits in its free reports (you can pay for fuller reports, but the free one is more than good enough).
- Look at your report. Keep an open mind. What surprises you most? What do your gut feelings tell you?
- Consider the top five ranked strengths? Like me do you recognise them as your ‘signature’, your core? Do you find the thought of using them for self development natural and energizing?
