In The Power of Character Strengths, Dr. Ryan Niemiec and Dr. Robert McGrath present a practical, science-based guide to understanding and applying the best qualities within you. This book highlights character strengths and their profound impact on the well-being of both individuals and society. Drawing on extensive research from positive psychology, it shows how activating your strengths enhances quality of life across cultures and communities, providing a universal language of human flourishing.
At the heart of positive psychology are six core virtues—wisdom, courage, humanity, justice, temperance, and transcendence—expressed through 24 character strengths. These include creativity, perseverance, kindness, leadership, gratitude, hope, and many more. Each strength offers a unique pathway to growth and resilience, shaping how you think, feel, and interact with the world.
After completing the free VIA Survey, you’ll receive a personalized profile of your character strengths. Your top five—your signature strengths—serve as a foundation for self-discovery and growth. This book then becomes your essential guide, offering clear explanations of each strength, real-life examples, and insights into what happens when a strength is underused or overused.
With practical strategies and a comprehensive 4-week program, you’ll learn how to build your strengths intentionally and apply them to relationships, work, community, and personal challenges. By doing so, you’ll cultivate greater resilience, experience more positive emotions, and move closer to becoming the best version of yourself.
The Power of Character Strengths is more than a reference—it’s a companion for living with purpose, fulfillment, and authenticity.
