Character Traits
The first dimension of the Inner Development Goals contains concepts related to Being-and our relationship with ourselves. In order for us to grow and adapt, we must first be able to identify and assess where we are right now. We need to 'drop a pin' and check in using our own thoughts in relation to feedback from the world around us.
With this in mind, I hit the link to the VIA institute and took the survey to identify what character traits might be my greatest strengths. This, I thought, could really help me leverage my present abilities and identify some areas for growth..which it did.
But, if I'm honest, I will admit that I was initially disappointed in the results. My top two strengths were humor and appreciation or beauty and excellence. Happily, love was included there in my top three. I felt like humor and this appreciation of beauty and excellence both seemed like fairly fluffy, superficial traits to lead with. Will I change the world by speaking in silly voices and win over skeptics by telling them their accessories *pop*?
I had to sit with it to consider that there were different applications to consider regarding those traits, right? For example, I think humor is sometimes an expression of humility. We do need to remember not to take ourselves too seriously sometimes. Another perspective I would offer is that there can be great power in finding light (or a giggle) when we feel heavy with darkness. Humor can, in fact, be incredibly helpful when applied with discernment.
Like humor, appreciation of beauty and excellence can present more than one way. It didn't say appreciation of "standard, physical" beauty. Nor did the character trait read as "excellence, as defined by rank and salary." For me, I realized, this trait is describing the idea that helping others identify beauty and excellence in unexpected ways can open us to more connection and gratitude.
What about you? What qualities do you have that contain a duality- in that they could express themselves in unexpected way? What qualities do you see in others that apply?
@zealousRose5745
Hi Rose,
Thank you for your detailed post; I enjoyed reading it.
I understand that sometimes, we are unaware of our power and abilities and can be critical of ourselves. However, if we take a moment to look deeper within ourselves, we will discover that we are more than we think we are. As you, Rose, mentioned, humour and appreciation of beauty and excellence mean much more and have a deeper meaning.
My top three core strengths—Curiosity, Love, and Hope—are integral to who I am and how I navigate the world. I have a natural curiosity that inspires me to explore and engage deeply with life, finding fascination in new ideas, experiences, and even the little details others might overlook. This sense of wonder drives me to keep learning and discovering, making life an exciting journey of growth. At the same time, I deeply value close, meaningful relationships. Love is central to how I connect with others, and I take joy in building reciprocal bonds where sharing and caring come naturally. I cherish the people in my life and the connections we nurture together. Lastly, my hope gives me the ability to remain optimistic and expect the best, even when faced with challenges. I believe in a bright future for myself and those around me, and this optimism fuels my determination and positivity. Together, these strengths shape my perspective, helping me create a life full of purpose, connection, and endless possibilities.
🤗
@Sel3ne
Navigating the world with love is a great way to go, in my opinion. There's not enough of it in this world, and if anything it should be more acceptable and more common to share our appreciation of others.
@zealousRose5745, loved reading this!