With an Emphasis on "Character"
Have you ever wondered what makes you uniquely powerful in your everyday life? The character strengths framework offers a profound lens to uncover and leverage your best qualities. These 24 scientifically-grounded strengths, organized under six core virtues, provide a roadmap for personal growth and fulfillment.
But what if you’re not using your strengths to their full potential? Or worse, what if you’re unknowingly turning them into obstacles? Let’s explore how you can identify, embrace, and even reframe your VIA strengths to align with your goals.
What Are Character Strengths?
Character Strengths are positive traits that influence your thoughts, feelings, and actions. They were developed through a 3-year study involving 55 researchers who examined positive human qualities across things like philosophy, ethics, psychology, and theology. Their goal was to identify what humanity values most. They fall under six core virtues:
Wisdom (e.g., Creativity, Curiosity)
Courage (e.g., Bravery, Perseverance)
Humanity (e.g., Kindness, Social Intelligence)
Justice (e.g., Fairness, Leadership)
Temperance (e.g., Forgiveness, Prudence)
Transcendence (e.g., Gratitude, Hope)
Each person possesses all 24 strengths in varying degrees, with some ranking higher as “signature strengths.” These are the qualities you naturally express and enjoy using.
There’s a free quiz you can take online to determine, in rank order, your strongest and weakest qualities. 27 million people have already taken it, and it’s been translated into 50 languages.
Ready to uncover your top strengths? Take the free VIA Survey to get started.
For Example: Gratitude
Strength in Action: You appreciate the good in your life, expressing thanks to others often.
Reframe Opportunity: Feeling overwhelmed by the need to reciprocate? Shift your mindset to see gratitude as mutual joy rather than an obligation.
For Example: Perseverance
Strength in Action: You complete tasks diligently, even when they’re challenging.
Reframe Opportunity: Does your perseverance feel like stubbornness at times? Consider moments when letting go could free up energy for more aligned pursuits.
For Example: Curiosity
Strength in Action: You seek out new ideas, perspectives, and experiences with enthusiasm.
Reframe Opportunity: Is your curiosity leading to scattered focus? Channel it by setting specific intentions for your explorations.
Why Reframing Your Strengths Matters
Even strengths can become stumbling blocks when overused or applied in the wrong context. For example:
Bravery can look like recklessness when unchecked.
Kindness might lead to burnout if you neglect self-care.
Hope could turn into avoidance if not paired with action.
Reframing helps you recalibrate and use your strengths in ways that serve your goals without undermining your well-being.
Put Your Strengths Into Action
Understanding and applying your character strengths isn’t just about personal insight—it’s about transformation. When you align your strengths with your values, challenges become opportunities, and life feels more meaningful.
Your character strengths are more than traits—they’re your superpowers. By exploring, embracing, and refining them, you can create a life that feels authentic, purposeful, and aligned.
What will you uncover about yourself today?
Take the Next Step: Discover your unique strengths and learn how to harness them effectively. 👉 Take the VIA Survey now and unlock your potential.
Need help along the way? Book a free, no-obligation, intro call.
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