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Character Strengths Inventory

A comprehensive reference of personal strengths to explore

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Character Strengths Inventory

A comprehensive reference of personal strengths to explore

Character strengths are the positive traits that reflect what is best in us. The VIA Classification of Character Strengths (Peterson & Seligman, 2004; updated by Niemiec, 2024) organizes 24 universal strengths under six broad virtues. Research shows that awareness and intentional use of signature strengths is associated with greater well-being, resilience, and life satisfaction. Use this inventory as a starting point: review the categories, notice which strengths resonate most, and consider how you already use them in daily life.

Wisdom and Knowledge

Creativity:: Thinking of novel and productive ways to approach problems or express ideas.
Curiosity:: Taking an interest in new experiences, topics, and ideas for their own sake.
Open-Mindedness:: Examining things from all sides and weighing evidence fairly before forming conclusions.
Love of Learning:: Actively seeking new skills, knowledge, and areas of mastery.
Perspective:: Offering wise counsel and seeing the bigger picture in complex situations.

Courage

Bravery:: Acting on convictions even when facing opposition, difficulty, or fear.
Persistence:: Finishing what you start and maintaining effort despite obstacles and setbacks.
Honesty:: Living authentically and representing yourself truthfully in word and action.
Enthusiasm:: Approaching life with energy, excitement, and a sense of vitality.

Humanity

Love:: Valuing close, warm relationships and investing in genuine mutual care.
Kindness:: Doing favors and good deeds for others without expecting anything in return.
Social Awareness:: Being attuned to the feelings, motives, and needs of other people.

Justice

Fairness:: Treating all people equitably and giving everyone a fair chance.
Leadership:: Organizing group activities, guiding a team, and encouraging others to contribute.
Cooperation:: Working well as a member of a group, contributing your share, and supporting collective goals.

Temperance

Forgiveness:: Letting go of resentment and offering a second chance to those who have wronged you.
Modesty:: Letting accomplishments speak for themselves rather than seeking the spotlight.
Self-Regulation:: Managing impulses, emotions, and appetites in pursuit of long-term goals.
Patience:: Remaining calm and steady when results or progress take time.

Transcendence

Gratitude:: Noticing and appreciating the good things in life and expressing thanks.
Humor:: Seeing the lighter side of situations and bringing laughter to yourself and others.
Spirituality:: Having a sense of purpose, meaning, or connection to something larger than yourself.
Optimism:: Expecting the best and working to achieve it while remaining realistic about challenges.

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