Signature Strengths in New Ways
performance · easy · 10 minutes daily + VIA survey (15 minutes once)
What is Signature Strengths in New Ways?
Using the VIA Classification of Character Strengths, this intervention involves identifying your top 5 signature strengths and deploying each in a novel way daily, producing sustained boosts in happiness and reductions in depression.
Is there evidence for it?
EVIDENCEstrong
How do you do Signature Strengths in New Ways?
- 1.Take the free VIA Character Strengths Survey at viacharacter.org to identify your top 5 signature strengths
- 2.For each strength, brainstorm 7 novel ways to use it this week — one per day (e.g., if 'curiosity' is a strength, explore a new neighborhood, ask deeper questions in conversations, read outside your field)
- 3.Track your strength use in a brief evening log: which strength did you use today? How? What was the effect on your mood?
- 4.After 1 week, reflect: which novel uses felt most natural and energizing? Double down on those applications
- 5.Monthly strength rotation: pick a lesser-used strength from your bottom 5 and practice it for a week to build versatility
How long does it take?
10 minutes daily + VIA survey (15 minutes once).
Is it hard to start?
easy.
Source: Peterson & Seligman (2004) VIA Classification; Seligman et al. (2005) RCT showing 'using signature strengths in new ways' increased happiness and decreased depression for 6 months; 2024 UC Press RCT with 1,163 participants confirming efficacy
character-strengths · via · strengths · positive-psychology · happiness · engagement
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