Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Positive Psychology is a relatively new field of study that emerged in the late 20th century. It focuses on the positive aspects of human experience, such as happiness, well-being, and character strengths.

In this article, we will explore the 24 Character Strengths, addressing the origins of Positive Psychology and the 6 fundamental virtues. Likewise, we will understand how to apply Character Strengths using all the potential that exists within us to have a more fulfilling life, whether in our personal or professional lives.

Introduction and origins of Positive Psychology

THE Positive Psychology, a revolutionary scientific approach, seeks to understand and promote positive aspects of the human experience. Thus, it is defined as the study of positive subjective experiences, positive individual characteristics, and positive institutions. In other words, instead of focusing only on problems and pathologies, this approach seeks to understand and promote what makes life worth living. Thus, central themes include happiness, resilience, gratitude, optimism, and the character strengths that allow individuals and communities to thrive.

The definition and objectives

Positive Psychology aims to answer questions such as “What is a good life?” and “What makes life worth living?” In other words, rather than just treating the negative aspects of the human experience, it seeks to cultivate the qualities that lead to well-being and personal fulfillment. Thus, the focus is on developing interventions that help people achieve a state of happiness and satisfaction.

In this sense, it is based on a more optimistic view of human nature, which seeks to understand what is possible to achieve rather than just treating problems.

Origin and historical influences

The roots of positive psychology can be traced back to ancient Greek philosophy, especially the concept of eudaimonia, which refers to human flourishing and virtuous living. In this sense, Aristotle, one of the main philosophers of Greece, argued that true happiness comes from the realization of human potential and the practice of virtues.

On the other hand, in the 20th century, humanistic psychology, with figures such as Abraham Maslow and Carl Rogers, began to challenge the prevailing view of psychology focused on pathology. Thus, Maslow, in his book “Motivation and Personality” (1954), introduced the term “Positive Psychology” and emphasized the need to understand human potential and what leads to personal fulfillment.

However, the positive psychology movement began to take shape in 1998, when Martin Seligman proposed a new focus for psychology, which prioritized the study of well-being and human strengths. Thus, together with Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (notably recognized for his research on Flow State), Seligman established positive psychology as a distinct field, seeking a balance between understanding psychological problems and promoting a meaningful and fulfilling life.

What are Character Strengths?

Character Strengths are universally recognized positive traits that enable individuals and communities to thrive. They are primarily expressed through our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and include qualities such as creativity, courage, kindness, fairness, gratitude, and humor.

On the other hand, unlike physical characteristics such as height, weight or skin color, strengths are not visible to the naked eye. Therefore, understanding and valuing them, especially in other people, requires a framework of consistent reflection and discussion.

The Importance of Character Strengths

These strengths are fundamental to our well-being and happiness. They help us overcome adversity, build healthy relationships, achieve goals, and find meaning in our lives. When we use our strengths, we feel more authentic, engaged, and capable of making a difference in the world.

Furthermore, they are closely linked to mental health, well-being and happiness. They can act as a shield against psychological illnesses such as depression, and their absence can be an indicator of psychopathology. What’s more, they influence our satisfaction with life, our positive and negative emotions. Therefore, cultivating our character strengths is essential for a full and flourishing life.

Universal Virtues

The six Universal Virtues are a set of positive characteristics that were identified by Martin Seligman and Christopher Peterson in their study on Positive Psychology.

These virtues are: Wisdom and Knowledge, Courage, Humanity, Justice, Temperance and Transcendence. Each virtue is composed of Character Strengths and are considered fundamental for psychological well-being, constituting the basis for building a full life.

These interconnected virtues provide an ethical guide, promoting not only the individual good but also the common good.

The 24 Character Strengths

The 24 Character Strengths are a set of positive traits that can be developed over time, which were identified by Seligman and Peterson and are part of the 6 virtues. The Character Strengths are distributed within the virtues as follows:

Wisdom and Knowledge:

• Love of knowledge and learning
• Creativity
• Curiosity
• Open Mind
• Perspective

Courage:

• Bravery
• Integrity (honesty)
• Perseverance
• Vitality (enthusiasm)

Humanity:

• Love
• Generosity
• Social intelligence

Justice:

• Justice (impartiality)
• Leadership
• Teamwork

Temperance (Moderation):

• Self-control
• Humility and modesty
• Forgiveness and mercy
• Prudence (discretion, caution)

Transcendence:

• Spirituality (sense of purpose)
• Hope (optimism)
• Grace (beauty and aesthetic excellence)
• Gratitude
• Humor

Character Strengths and Personal Development

Knowledge of Character Strengths can influence personal development in many ways, being powerful catalysts for self-knowledge.

Thus, by identifying one's strengths, people can focus on developing these areas and using them to achieve their goals. Likewise, they can also be used to overcome challenges and deal with difficult situations. Practical examples of applying these strengths in everyday life include the practice of gratitude, the search for new experiences and the practice of meditation.

Research and studies show that people who develop Character Strengths tend to be happier, healthier and more successful in their lives, showing more resilience emotional and satisfaction.

Additionally, Character Strengths can also help people cope with stress and overcome challenges. Finally, the connection between these Universal Virtues and well-being creates a solid foundation for therapeutic approaches and self-care practices.

Identifying and Developing Character Strengths

There are several strategies for identifying your Character Strengths. One way is to take the test VIA Character Strengths, a questionnaire online free that helps people identify their core Character Strengths. Another way is to ask feedback of friends and family, looking for their most recognized points.

To develop and strengthen their Character Strengths, people can engage in activities that engage them. For example, if someone has the strength of creativity, they might try writing a poem or painting a picture.

Some ways to promote the development of these strengths:

Self-knowledge:

• Practice regular self-reflection to understand your own character strengths.
• Use tools, such as personality assessments, to identify strengths.

Personal Goals:

• Set personal goals that are aligned with identified character strengths.
• Integrate these strengths into professional and personal goals.

Cultivating Positive Relationships:

• Develop interpersonal connections based on mutual strengths.
• Practice empathy and compassion in interactions with others.

Gratitude Practices:

• Keep a gratitude journal to focus on the positive things in life.
• Express gratitude to others regularly.

Continuous Development:

• Participate in courses, workshops or training aimed at personal development.
• Seek constructive feedback to identify areas for improvement.

Mindfulness and Meditation:

• Incorporate practices of mindfulness to raise awareness of character strengths.
• Participate in meditation sessions to promote emotional balance.

Volunteer Service:

• Participate in volunteer activities that allow you to use your character strengths for meaningful causes.
• Contribute to the community in ways that align with individual strengths.

Personal Challenges:

• Accept challenges that allow you to use and strengthen your character strengths.
• Facing difficult situations with resilience and optimism.

Sharing Experiences:

• Share stories and experiences that highlight the application of character strengths.
• Inspire others to identify and develop their own strengths.

Promoting a Positive Environment (more details in the next topic):

• Foster an organizational culture that values and rewards the application of character strengths.
• Lead teams in a way that promotes the use and development of individual strengths.

Creating a positive environment

Fostering a positive environment based on Character Strengths is an effective strategy for individuals and organizations. Many companies incorporate these principles into their cultures, encouraging authenticity and collaboration, and demonstrating how a positive environment can boost engagement and productivity.

Therefore, it is worth noting that the application of Positive Psychology may vary from one company to another and may involve different strategies. Some examples of companies that have shown interest in this field include:

Google

Known for its innovative approach to human resource management, Google has incorporated Positive Psychology practices into its employee wellness program. As such, they offer trainings on mindfulness, meditation sessions and programs to promote job satisfaction.

Zappos

E-commerce company Zappos is known for its unique corporate culture that focuses on employee well-being. They emphasize the importance of happiness at work and offer benefits that aim to foster a positive environment.

LinkedIn

The professional social network LinkedIn has adopted practices that promote employee satisfaction and engagement. Thus, they offer personal and professional development programs, recognizing the importance of continuous growth.

Patagonia

Outdoor clothing company Patagonia has a unique approach to employee well-being. They offer flexible work schedules, sustainability programs, and encourage employees to find a work-life balance.

Salesforce

Salesforce is known for its philanthropic and socially responsible initiatives, seeking to positively impact society. In this way, the company also cares about the well-being of its employees, offering benefits and programs that promote a healthy work environment.

In short…

By following the paths of Character Strengths and Virtues, we delve into the heart of Positive Psychology. Thus, we understand that by focusing on these intrinsic qualities, we not only shape our own destiny, but also contribute to a more compassionate and resilient society.

Ultimately, Character Strengths and Virtues are not just psychological concepts, but valuable guides to a journey of authenticity and fulfillment. Therefore, by integrating them into our daily lives, we open the door to a more fulfilling and meaningful existence.

Recommended reading:

 

 

 

Character Strengths: Keys to Positive Psychology

 

 

 

---

 

 

 

Interventions with Character Strengths

 

 

Image: Freepik