Whilst most people are acutely aware of their weaknesses, few can accurately name their strengths but we all have them! The VIA Institute On Character offers a free online survey that will help you discover your greatest strengths to unlock your potential. It will...
Character Strengths An important topic in the field of positive psychology is the study of strengths. The basic idea is that we are all different and have different strengths – thoughts, feelings or behaviours that come naturally to us and give us energy and a sense...
The value of strengths A focus on strengths is an integral part of Positive Psychology. Research shows us that those who regularly use their strengths have greater wellbeing in terms of health, happiness, relationships and even performance. Strengths use is associated...
How do we know when we are using our strengths? It is when we are feeling energised when a task is easy and enjoyable to complete. It is when time passes quickly when we look up and think where did those two hours go. It is when we have a feeling of satisfaction in...
A core strength The appreciation of beauty and excellence is described by the VIA Institute on Character (viacharacter.org) as one of the 24 universal core character strengths. In this blog I want to describe what that means and how developing this strength might help...
A cornerstone of Positive Psychology A focus on strengths rather than weaknesses is a fundamental aspect of Positive Psychology. Research supports the idea that regularly using our strengths is good for both well-being and performance because capitalising on our...
Until I became familiar with my own character strengths, I truly was only aware of my weaknesses. I worry a lot, I am oversensitive, I find it hard to adjust to life changes and I overthink. I believe I am not alone in this focus on weaknesses, regardless of having a...
I’m sitting here, late afternoon, keyboard in front of me, and I’m fighting the urge to go in the garden. Instead I’m writing. Strengths are supposed to be something you dream and drool of doing, and one of my strengths is writing. Strengths: the things which you can...
“Nice to meet you. It’s a wonderful starry night, have you seen the epic full moon tonight? Do you also enjoy taking photos of colorful sunsets or feel a bit reassured when you spot the moon while walking alone at night? Isn’t being alive and able to witness the...
When I first heard about Positive Psychology and character strengths it was from the most unlikely of sources. A positive psychologist (I forget who) was quoted in a glossy magazine spread about body image as saying something (I forget what) about overcoming anxiety...