Self-esteem assessment
A simple self-esteem tool from positive psychology
Song of the week ♡
Where do we begin when we feel low in energy and desire change? We often focus on what is lacking, what could be improved, and what we could do better. Obviously, a very logical starting point. However, while we look at those, it might also be interesting to look at what we are already nailing, where our strengths lie.
As mentioned before, positive psychology shifts our energy from “What am I doing wrong?” to “What is strong in me?”. An easy yet powerful tool to use in this case would be the self-esteem assessment. Why? See it as recalibrating yourself, inner alignment. Once we build on our strengths, we have more confidence, energy, and creativity to handle the bad. So let's celebrate what is already inside of us, shall we?
Virtues are the core of what makes us human. They are the inner qualities that help us not only survive, but also what actually makes us excited about our lives. You will see soon what I mean. There’s something magical about naming the parts of ourselves that often go unseen. The quiet resilience. The love we give without being asked. The way we keep learning even when life is hard and there seems to be no way that our reality will change.
In positive psychology, they talk about character strengths, the core parts of who we are when we’re at our best. These strengths are grouped into six universal virtues that have been found by researchers in cultures all around the world. If you would like to learn more, Drs. Peterson and Seligman wrote a book about this subject: “Character Strengths and Virtues”
They’re not rules. They’re not goals. They’re just reflections of human qualities, and they live in all of us, in different ways. Which is all okay, by the way, there is no right or wrong way. It only needs to make sense and work for YOU.
I am a simple girl, so here’s a simple breakdown of each virtue and the strengths terms that fall under it:
Wisdom and Knowledge
These strengths are about the mind. They help us explore, reflect, and make meaning from the world around us.
Creativity – Finding new ways to do things and think about life
Curiosity – Being drawn to learn and explore
Open-mindedness – Taking in different views with fairness and care
Love of Learning – Enjoying growth just because
Perspective – Offering insight that helps you and others
Humanity
Humanity is all about connection. These strengths help us build meaningful, loving relationships.
Love – Giving and receiving care with intention
Kindness – Choosing compassion in how we act and speak
Social Intelligence – Understanding people’s emotions and responding with empathy
Justice
These strengths guide how we show up in community and contribute to fairness, belonging, and leadership.
Teamwork – Working well with others for a shared goal
Fairness – Treating people with respect and equality
Leadership – Guiding others with vision and care
Courage
Courage helps us stay true to ourselves and act even when things feel hard or uncertain.
Bravery – Facing fear or challenge without giving up
Perseverance – Sticking with what matters, even when it’s tough
Integrity – Being honest and living in alignment with your values
Zest – Bringing energy and wholeheartedness to life
Temperance
Temperance helps us stay centered. These strengths create balance and protect us from excess.
Forgiveness – Releasing resentment to make space for peace
Humility – Being grounded in who you are without needing to prove it
Prudence – Thinking before acting
Self-regulation – Managing your emotions and habits with care
Transcendence
These strengths lift us up. They connect us to beauty, purpose, and joy beyond the moment.
Appreciation of Beauty and Excellence – Noticing what’s good, beautiful, or masterful
Purpose – Feeling guided by something meaningful
Gratitude – Recognizing what you’re thankful for
Hope – Believing in better days and doing your part to create them
Humor – Finding joy and lightness, even in the hard stuff
So.. now that we are on the same page. Let’s get to it, shall we?
Rate on a scale from 1–5:
How strongly do you identify with the strength?
How often do you use it in daily life?
How proud do you feel of this strength?
Reflection Questions:
Which of your top strengths makes you feel most confident?
Are there strengths you undervalue in yourself?
How can you apply your strengths more intentionally?
Love,
Romy