Want to know a relatively easy way of feeling better at work?
It’s simply by intelligently applying your character strengths – more effectively using what you naturally have within you!
Let me explain a little more….
A quick look at character strengths
Character strengths are “positive traits reflected in thoughts, feelings and behaviours” (Park et al., 2004) and are regarded as essential ingredients of a fulfilling and happy life (Peterson, 2006). The VIA Classification consists of 24 different character strengths, which we all have within us and can draw on to support us in all aspects of life.
Studies have shown that this where we can experience the greatest positive impact.
I use the VIA Classification of character strengths with my clients as they are flexible, effective and impactful when professionally applied, and have been proven through many studies to contribute to flourishing.
What are the benefits of applying character strengths at work?
When we consistently and intelligently apply our strengths at work, there’s evidence to show that we can experience improvements in:
job performance
productivity
work satisfaction and meaningful work
employee engagement
job dedication
interpersonal facilitation
performance ratings
When I say intelligently, I mean that to really get the most benefit of applying your strengths, it’s important to know the best way in which to use them! For example to understand when to dial up a strength, such as bravery before a speech; or dial down a strength, for example creativity when you are required to closely follow processes. Or by seeking an evidence-based positive psychology intervention to develop your strengths in new and novel ways.
So, which strengths are most impactful at work?
Numerous studies have found that when the character strengths of…
curiosity: “interest, novelty-seeking, exploration, openness to experience”
zest: “vitality, enthusiasm for life, vigour, energy, not doing things half-heartedly”
hope: “optimism, positive future-mindedness, expecting the best and working to achieve it”
gratitude: “thankful for the good, expressing thanks, feeling blessed”
… are consistently applied at work, then we can experience higher levels of satisfaction.
Some positive actions you can try
Here are some ideas of how you could apply each in the work setting:
Curiosity
ask ‘why’ questions more often, especially when making assumptions
be curious about a work task that you don’t like – find a new way to view it positively
challenge yourself to learn a new thing a day for a week
Zest
when you feel your energy lagging, instead of reaching for a sugary snack, get out and go for a short walk
express your energy and individuality by wearing colourful clothes
prepare yourself for new tasks at work by considering the positive aspects
Hope
observe how hopeful colleagues overcome challenges
support someone who may be struggling by offering hopeful ideas and concrete actions they could take
set daily goals for what you’d like to achieve and identify 2-3 different ways you could reach these goals
Gratitude
explain why you are grateful to a colleague, either by what they have done or for a positive aspect of themselves and leave it on their desk in a note to surprise them
each evening, recall 3 good things that happened at work each day
start meetings by sharing successes
(Reference: Niemiec & McGrath, 2019; Niemiec, 2018: McQuaid & Lawn, 2014)
So, which of these 4 strengths will you be focusing on first?!