What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think about living a flourishing life? Take a moment and consider that question…
Many of us will equate a flourishing life with a happy life. But what is happiness? What contributes to a life lived well? What are the main ingredients of wellbeing? This is a complex, multifaceted question which we’ll explore on this blog by looking at all sides of what it means to live a flourishing life.
Often, when we think of what will make us happy we imagine ourselves expressing our innate intelligence and natural brilliance freely and fully. We envision being seen and supported in being authentically who we are.
One way the science of wellbeing can help support self-actualization and its ripple effects throughout our communities and institutions is by drawing attention to character strengths and providing the tools to identify and leverage them more consciously and frequently.
One such tool is the Values in Action (VIA) Classification of Character Strengths and Virtues developed by Dr. Martin Seligman and Dr. Christopher Peterson. The VIA Classification contains 24 character strengths clustered under six core virtues which have been found to be universally represented across countries and cultures.
The VIA Inventory of Strengths is an assessment tool that helps individuals identity their signature strengths i.e. character strengths in which a person has a sense of ownership and that are frequently exercised. The more frequent use of signature strengths has been found to contribute significantly to happiness and life satisfaction, and in the workplace has been associated with increased productivity.
You can complete the VIA Inventory of Strengths (free questionnaire) HERE
And you can learn more about the VIA Classification of Character Strengths and Virtues HERE
“Use your signature strengths and virtues in the service of something much larger than you are.” ~ Martin Seligman from Authentic Happiness