What are your signature strengths? A tabulation of the VIA virtues and strengths

In an earlier article, What is Positive Psychology? (Part 2), I mentioned the Values in Action (VIA) Classification of Strengths Manual. This VIA was formulated after three years of extensive research into various sources such as religion and philosophy. As a tool, the VIA is indeed commendable for labelling our strengths, however, as it is relatively infant in usage, discretion should be exercised. I found the VIA Institute on Character’s exercises on using our strengths in innovative ways thought-provoking, and is definitely worth trying out!

Here is a tabulation of strengths classified under each virtue, Wisdom and Knowledge, Courage, Humanity and Love, Justice, Temperance, and Transcendence (Seligman, 2002).

Wisdom and Knowledge

1. Curiosity/Interest in the World
2. Love of Learning
3. Judgment/Critical Thinking/Open-Mindedness
4. Ingenuity/Originality/Practical Intelligence/Street Smarts
5. Social Intelligence/Personal Intelligence/Emotional Intelligence
6. Perspective

Courage

1. Valour and Bravery
2. Perseverance/Industry/Diligence
3. Integrity/Genuineness/Honesty

Humanity and Love

1. Kindness and Generosity
2. Loving and Allowing Oneself to Be Loved

Justice

1. Citizenship/Duty/Teamwork/Loyalty
2. Fairness and Equity
3. Leadership

Temperance

1. Self-Control
2. Prudence/Discretion/Caution
3. Humility and Modesty

Transcendence

1. Appreciation of Beauty and Excellence
2. Gratitude
3. Hope/Optimism/Future-Mindedness
4. Spirituality/Sense of Purpose/Faith/Religiousness
5. Forgiveness and Mercy
6. Playfulness and Humour
7. Zest/Passion/Enthusiasm

My top five strengths are Creativity, ingenuity, and originality; Curiosity and interest in the world; Appreciation of beauty and excellence; Capacity to love and be loved; and Leadership. What is yours?

References

Seligman, M. E. P. (2002). Authentic happiness: Using the new Positive Psychology to realise your potential for lasting fulfillment. New York: Simon & Schuster.