Self-exploration of personal strengths

One of the fundamental pillars for personal development within positive psychology is self-knowledge, and specifically, the identification of one's own character strengths.

To initiate this process of discovery, an exercise of conscious self-reflection is proposed, allowing the person to begin to recognize those qualities that he or she already possesses, even before resorting to more formal evaluation tools.

First Impression. Self-perceived Strengths

The first step in this introspective exercise consists of a personal reflection on what one considers to be one's own strengths.

Without the need for detailed prior knowledge about the formal classification of strengths, the person is invited to think spontaneously and honestly about those qualities or positive traits that he or she believes to possess.

This is an initial "batting", where you write down what, in your own opinion, constitutes a strength in your way of being or acting, even if it does not strictly conform to a technical definition of strength or can be confused with a value.

The important thing at this stage is sincerity and connection with one's own perception.

External Perspective. Strengths as Seen by Others

Once the initial self-assessment is done, the next step is to seek the perspective of people close to you.

It is suggested to ask friends, family members, partners or other people you trust what they believe are the individual's strengths.

This contrast of perceptions is valuable, as others may observe positive qualities or patterns of behavior that one does not recognize or underestimates oneself.

It is important to collect these external opinions to enrich the self-analysis.

Analysis of Coincidences and Discrepancies

With the information on self-perception and external opinions, we proceed to a comparative analysis.

The aim is to identify the strengths in which both perspectives coincide and in which there are differences.

Reflecting on the reasons for these coincidences or discrepancies is a crucial part of the exercise.

Why do others see certain strengths that you don't, or vice versa? How similar or different are the perceptions?

This analysis fosters a deeper and more nuanced understanding of oneself.

Admired Qualities in Others and in Self

Finally, the exercise is complemented with a reflection on what is most admired and valued in other people.

Identifying these qualities can offer clues to the values and strengths that one appreciates and potentially possesses or wishes to develop.

Subsequently, the same question is addressed to oneself: ¿Qué es lo que más admiro y valoro de mí?

This exercise in conscious self-awareness, combining introspection with external feedback, lays the foundation for a clearer understanding of one's own character strengths.