Home: Elements of Happiness: Virtues and Strengths

Virtues and Strengths

Our Unique Link to Happiness

A big part of happiness is appreciating the what is good in the people we meet. Unfortunately, most of us are trained to identify what is wrong or missing rather than what is right. When it comes to the language of positive characteristics, the words do not come readily to mind.

Download your FREE Virtues and Strengths Poster
This 8.5 x 11 graphic shows the 24 Universal Strengths and Virtues plus many alternate words to help jog your thinking!

In his book, Authentic Happiness, positive psychology founder Martin Seligman lists 24 positive characteristics culled from a landmark study. The VIA Classification of Strengths and Virtues found 24 characteristics that are revered in almost every culture, ancient and modern. Here they are for your consideration and brainstorming.

24 Universal Virtues

Wisdom and Knowledge

�€� Curiosity/Interestin the World

�€� Loveof Learning

�€� Judgment/CriticalThinking/Open-Mindedness

�€� Ingenuity/Originality/PracticalIntelligence/StreetSmarts

�€� SocialIntelligence/Personal Intelligence/EmotionalIntelligence

�€� Perspective

Courage

�€� Valorand Bravery

�€� Perseverance/Industry/Diligence

�€� Integrity/Genuineness/Honesty

Humanity and Love

�€� Kindnessand Generosity

�€� Lovingand Allowing Oneself to be Loved

Justice

�€� Citizenship/Duty/Teamwork/Loyalty

�€� Fairnessand Equity

�€� Leadership

Temperance

�€� SelfControl

�€� Prudence/Discretion/Caution

�€� Humilityand Modesty

Transcendence

�€� AppreciationofBeauty and Excellence

�€� Gratitude

�€� Hope/Optimism/Future-Mindedness

�€� Spirituality/Senseof Purpose/Faith/Religiousness

�€� ForgivenessandMercy

�€� PlayfulnessandHumor

�€� Zest/Passion/Enthusiasm

You might also enjoy StrengthsFinder 2.0 by Tom Rath Discover another set of strengths based on the modern work place. This team also wrote these fine books about Strengths based on research by Gallop Polls.