The Values in Action Inventory of Strengths, often abbreviated as VIA, is a powerful tool that helps people identify their unique character strengths. Created by psychologists Christopher Peterson and Martin Seligman, it’s designed to encourage personal growth and well-being by focusing on what people do well instead of what they lack.

What Are Character Strengths?

Character strengths are positive traits reflected in thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. They are the building blocks of our personality and contribute to a fulfilling life. The VIA approach emphasizes the importance of using these strengths to enhance our overall well-being.

The VIA Inventory

The VIA Inventory consists of 24 character strengths divided into six broad categories. Here’s a quick look:

1. Wisdom

• Creativity: Thinking of new and original ideas.
• Curiosity: Always wanting to learn more.
• Judgment: Evaluating information thoughtfully.
• Love of Learning: Enjoying the process of learning.
• Perspective: Offering wise counsel to others.

2. Courage

• Bravery: Facing fear and uncertainty.
• Perseverance: Keeping going despite challenges.
• Honesty: Being truthful in thoughts and actions.
• Zest: Approaching life with excitement and energy.

3. Humanity

• Love: Valuing close relationships with others.
• Kindness: Doing favors and good deeds for others.
• Social Intelligence: Being aware of others' feelings and thoughts.

4. Justice

• Fairness: Treating all people the same.
• Leadership: Organizing group activities and encouraging others.
• Teamwork: Working well as a member of a group.

5. Temperance

• Forgiveness: Letting go of grudges.
• Humility: Being modest about your achievements.
• Prudence: Making careful decisions.
• Self-Regulation: Managing your emotions effectively.

6. Transcendence

• Appreciation of Beauty: Recognizing and appreciating beauty in the world.
• Gratitude: Being thankful for what you have.
• Hope: Expecting the best in the future.
• Humor: Finding joy and laughter in life.
• Spirituality: Seeking meaning and purpose.

Taking the VIA Survey

To find out your top strengths, you can take the VIA Survey online. It’s a simple and free questionnaire that usually takes about 15-20 minutes to complete. After finishing the survey, you’ll receive a report detailing your top five character strengths, which you can explore further.

Applying Your Strengths in Real Life

Using your strengths in everyday life can lead to greater happiness and fulfillment. Here are some practical ways to apply your strengths:

• In Your Job: If your top strength is creativity, seek roles or projects where you can innovate.
• In Relationships: If kindness is a strong point, look for opportunities to help friends or family members.
• In Personal Growth: If learning is your strength, engage in new hobbies or educational courses.

Comparison with Other Strengths Assessments

While the VIA Inventory focuses on character strengths, other assessments like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or the Big Five Personality Traits evaluate personality types or traits rather than strengths. The VIA is unique because it emphasizes positive attributes and how they can be used to improve well-being.

Conclusion

Exploring the Values in Action Inventory of Strengths can be a rewarding journey. By understanding and applying your unique strengths, you can enhance not only your own life but also the lives of those around you.