Many of us spend too much time worrying about the things we believe are wrong in our life. Some people even keep repeating to themselves that they are not good enough. The problem is that this type of thinking only focuses on negative emotions, which hardly ever bring us any good.
Negative thinking pulls your mood down, drains your energy, and steals your motivation. Without motivation, you’ll be very likely to give up on your goals and dreams. Think about how many times you’ve given up something (sometimes even before trying) just because a little voice in your head kept saying that you were not cut out for it. If this is your case, I’d like to introduce you to Positive Psychology.
According to the Positive Psychology principles, all of us have a set of positive dispositions that builds our character. These so-called character strengths are trait-like characteristics that make each one of us unique. It is believed that the continued use of these strengths contributes to self-fulfillment, life satisfaction, and happiness. So, why would you want to focus on your weaknesses rather than your strengths?
Experts identified 24 character strengths that are organized under six core virtues: wisdom and knowledge, courage, humanity, justice, temperance, and transcendence. See the table below.
Every individual presents a combination of these qualities that build one personality. However, some of these traits are more evident than others. These are called signature strengths. Your signature strengths are the ones that express who you really are. They are instinctive, exciting, and easy to display. Using these strengths is described as being invigorating and motivating. Thus, these are qualities you want to cultivate because they naturally lead you to personal achievements.
Now, you must be thinking “How can I determine my signature strengths?” Chris Peterson, a professor at the University of Michigan, developed a questionnaire that ranks your strengths. You can take the survey at the VIA (values in action) strengths website. After completing the test, take the five highest strengths and analyze each one in order to discover your signature strengths. Ask yourself a few questions:
“Does this strength express who I am?”
“Do I feel excited to display this quality?”
“Do I feel that no one can stop me when I’m using this strength?”
“Do I express enthusiasm and joy when using this strength?”
“Do I feel invigorated by it?”
When you determine your signature strengths, try the following exercise. Find new ways of using your strengths in your daily routine. Think about your personal projects and how these strengths could help motivate you towards your goals. Keep in mind that because these qualities are second nature to you, you won’t have much trouble practicing them. In addition, it is very likely that you’ll feel empowered to create and pursue new projects that revolve around your strengths.
References
Peterson, C. A Primer in Positive Psychology. New York: Oxford University Press. 2006.
Seligman, M. Flourish. A Visionary New Understanding of Happiness and Well-Being. New York: Free Press. 2011.