(Download a printable page)
This is the list of 24 character strengths from Values in Action (VIA). All of these can be linked to stories in peoples’ lives.
Thus, after the person you are supporting has told you about a painful past event or difficult situation, this list can be a source of inspiration when you ask the person to now share a story about a time when they displayed these strengths, such as:
- “Can you recall a time when you showed great perseverance despite facing challenges?”
- “When have you used your creativity to solve a difficult problem?”
- “What is an instance where your kindness made a positive impact on someone else?”
Wisdom and Knowledge (Cognitive Strengths)
Creativity – Thinking of novel and productive ways to do things.
Curiosity – Taking an interest in ongoing experience and exploration.
Judgment (Critical Thinking) – Weighing all aspects and making well-reasoned decisions.
Love of Learning – Mastering new skills, topics, and bodies of knowledge.
Perspective (Wisdom) – Offering wise counsel and seeing the bigger picture.
Courage (Emotional Strengths)
Bravery – Acting despite fear, facing challenges head-on.
Perseverance (Grit) – Finishing what one starts despite obstacles.
Honesty (Integrity) – Speaking the truth and being authentic.
Zest (Vitality) – Approaching life with excitement and energy.
Humanity (Interpersonal Strengths)
Love – Valuing close relationships and showing warmth.
Kindness (Generosity) – Doing good deeds for others.
Social Intelligence – Being aware of others’ feelings and emotions.
Justice (Civic Strengths)
Teamwork (Citizenship) – Working well as part of a group or team.
Fairness – Treating all people equally and justly.
Leadership – Encouraging a group to get things done while maintaining good relations.
Temperance (Self-Regulation Strengths)
Forgiveness – Letting go of resentment and moving forward.
Humility – Not seeking the spotlight and letting one’s accomplishments speak for themselves.
Prudence – Being careful about one’s choices; not taking undue risks.
Self-Regulation (Discipline) – Controlling emotions, behaviors, and desires.
Transcendence (Strengths that connect us to the larger universe)
Appreciation of Beauty and Excellence – Noticing and appreciating the good in life.
Gratitude – Being thankful for the good things in life.
Hope (Optimism) – Expecting good things and working toward them.
Humor – Seeing the lighter side of life and bringing smiles to others.
Spirituality – Having coherent beliefs about a higher purpose in life
Other resources
Here’s a great free article about strength-based approaches from positivepsychology.com.
Here’s a page with a list of twenty example questions that draw out stories of people using their strengths.