Wellness
Unlock Your Best Self: Character Strengths
Discover the 24 universal character strengths identified by positive psychology. Learn how leveraging your core traits can boost happiness and resilience.
What is it?
Character strengths are the positive, core qualities that make up your personality. Stemming from the field of positive psychology, they are viewed as our best, most authentic attributes. The most prominent framework, the VIA (Values in Action) Classification, identifies 24 universal strengths that are organized under six core virtues: Wisdom, Courage, Humanity, Justice, Temperance, and Transcendence. Strengths can range from creativity and bravery to kindness and gratitude. Everyone possesses all 24 strengths in different degrees, creating a unique personal profile of what is best within them.
Why is it trending?
The focus on character strengths is trending due to a cultural shift towards proactive mental wellness and personal growth, championed by positive psychology. Instead of concentrating on weaknesses, this approach encourages developing what is naturally strong within a person. Research consistently shows that individuals who regularly use their top character strengths report higher levels of happiness, engagement, and meaning in their lives. This has led to its widespread adoption in coaching, therapy, corporate wellness programs, and education as a practical tool for flourishing.
How does it affect people?
Actively using your character strengths can significantly improve overall wellbeing. It is linked to increased life satisfaction, better mental health, and greater resilience when facing adversity. By focusing on their strengths, people can navigate stress more effectively and experience a deeper sense of fulfillment and authenticity. In practice, this can lead to stronger relationships, as it fosters appreciation for the unique qualities in others. At work, leveraging strengths is associated with higher job satisfaction, improved performance, and lower stress levels.