VIA Strengths Test

Positive Psychology seems to me to be one of the most useful subcategories of psychology. According to Positive Psychology.org positive psychology is "a science of positive aspects of human
life, such as happiness, well-being and flourishing".

An aspect of this achievement of happiness is utilizing your strengths for the well-being of others and for yourself. This can be achieved through testing as tests have an introspective quality about them that helps someone examine themselves (if they are honest about their true state of being).

I recently completed the VIA strengths test and I have used my top three strengths to improve my life and the lives of others in various ways.My top three strengths are (#1) Forgiveness and Mercy, (#2) Judgement, Critical Thinking, and Open Mindedness, and (#3) Modesty and Humility. I was surprised that Forgiveness and Mercy made up my first strength because I feel like I hold bitterness towards people sometimes (maybe it's because I don't externalize this?).

I used my top three strengths over the last few weeks to make a positive impact on my own life and the lives of others.

#1: Forgiveness and Mercy

1. I had to cover a shift for one of my co workers about two weeks ago. It was about an hour before her shift was supposed to begin that she texted me the question. I had just finished my induction ceremony for Sigma Alpha Iota, so naturally I was crunched for time to go back to my room, change, and come all the way back to work. My co worker apologized for the inconvenience, but I simply forgave her and moved along. Although it had been a slight hassle to cover for her, I don't hold a grudge against her for the last minute request. 
2. I was supposed to meet up with one of my classmates to work on music theory homework that was due last Thursday. I had asked him on Monday to let me know when a good time would be to meet with him that week and I even reminded him a few times. He never did get back to me, but I wasn't upset with him at all. I forgave him in my heart for breaking his promise to meet up with me because our friendship isn't based off of expectations. 
3. Not only did I use this strength for other people, I also used it for myself. In Cowboy Band, we have been going through the process of drum majors auditions. Every rehearsal, the candidates are expected to conduct the band through a selection of specific music. As one of the candidates, I had to prepare a piece to conduct during last Friday's class time. I didn't do as well as I had hoped, and I received a good amount of criticism from the band. Even though I was upset by my shortcoming, I kept telling myself that I had done the best that I could have done. I forgave myself and let myself be at peace with what happened because of the efforts that I had made. It doesn't do me any good to dwell on my mistakes. 

#2: Judgement, Critical Thinking, and Open Mindedness

1. I have been thoroughly examining all of the aspects of the drum major audition process so far. I thoroughly analyze the feedback from the band and come back the next time with a changed perspective. They have told me that I have improved tremendously, meaning that I have been willing to change my style in light of new information.
2. During political discussions, I try to see the debates from all different sides (republican, democrat, etc...). I don't find any particular party to be correct in all of their policies, and I usually fall somewhere in the middle. I don't care for labels, but you could say that if anything I'm a libertarian. 
3. A few times last week, I found myself listening to someone say bad things about someone else (basically pointing out their mistakes and flaws). I never judge anyone by the words of someone else and I thought about not making a judgement on the subject of the conversation, but rather the conveyor of the words because of their bitterness.

 #3: Modesty and Humility

1. Going back to the drum major auditioning process: I have received many compliments on my efforts in the competition. I have found it very difficult to accept this praise, so I usually say thank you and change the subject. The compliments are genuine and I appreciate them, but I keep a perspective on what I can do to improve as to not get a big head on my shoulders. 
2. Last Sunday, I had to get ready for a formal for Sigma Alpha Iota, an organization that I have recently become a member of. One of my "sisters", Leigh Wilson (my friend from my very first post!) was doing my makeup. She would keep giving me compliments such as "I only would like to use natural tones on you because you are already naturally beautiful" and "Your cheekbones are gorgeous." I found myself giving compliments back to her because she was also getting ready for the formal. I would things like "you're so fancy" (I'm not too good at giving out compliments, but I try!). It also happened throughout the night with the other sisters. They would compliment me as a sign of greeting ("Ohhhh look at you girl!", etc..) and I would attempt to reciprocate a similar response to balance out the positive energy.