Pondering Strengths

Posted on Posted in Personal Development

Clay posted a link to a test to determine Character Strengths. Like Clay, I registered on the website to take the test. 240 questions later, I learned my top strengths, in this order are:

  1. Honesty, authenticity, and genuineness: You are an honest person, not only by speaking the truth but by living your life in a genuine and authentic way. You are down to earth and without pretense; you are a "real" person.
  2. Industry, diligence, and perseverance: You work hard to finish what you start. No matter the project, you "get it out the door" in timely fashion. You do not get distracted when you work, and you take satisfaction in completing tasks.
  3. Judgment, critical thinking, and open-mindedness: Thinking things through and examining them from all sides are important aspects of who you are. You do not jump to conclusions, and you rely only on solid evidence to make your decisions. You are able to change your mind.
  4. Creativity, ingenuity, and originality: Thinking of new ways to do things is a crucial part of who you are. You are never content with doing something the conventional way if a better way is possible.
  5. Curiosity and interest in the world: You are curious about everything. You are always asking questions, and you find all subjects and topics fascinating. You like exploration and discovery

I can't really say that I'm surprised by any of these, although I was somewhat surprised that some of the other characteristics were not dominant to these.

These are the remaining 19 strengths listed from strongest to weakest for me, after the top 5 above. I knew from the questions that spirituality would be dead last (as it is), but it was surprising to me that love of learning did not make it to the top 5.

  1. Love of learning
  2. Perspective (wisdom)
  3. Bravery and valor
  4. Caution, prudence, and discretion
  5. Hope, optimism, and future-mindedness
  6. Self-control and self-regulation
  7. Zest, enthusiasm, and energy
  8. Gratitude
  9. Fairness, equity, and justice
  10. Kindness and generosity 
  11. Social intelligence 
  12. Modesty and humility
  13. Citizenship, teamwork, and loyalty
  14. Leadership
  15. Humor and playfulness
  16. Capacity to love and be loved
  17. Forgiveness and mercy
  18. Appreciation of beauty and excellence
  19. Spirituality, sense of purpose, and faith

Find yours.