The Six Virtues and 24 Character Strengths Explained
The VIA Classification groups the 24 character strengths into six broad virtues. Peterson and Seligman (2004) identified these virtues as qualities that have been valued across cultures, religions, and philosophical traditions throughout history.
Rather than focusing on what is wrong with people, the VIA framework highlights the positive qualities that help individuals thrive and flourish.
Wisdom
The strengths of wisdom help us learn, think creatively, make sound decisions, and use knowledge to navigate life effectively.
- Creativity – Thinking of original, practical, or imaginative ways to solve problems and approach situations.
- Curiosity – Taking an interest in the world, asking questions, and enjoying new experiences and ideas.
- Judgement (Critical Thinking) – Considering different perspectives, evaluating evidence, and making balanced decisions.
- Love of Learning – Enjoying the process of gaining new knowledge, skills, and understanding.
- Perspective – Offering wise advice and seeing the bigger picture, even in challenging situations.
Courage
The strengths of courage enable us to accomplish goals, face challenges, overcome obstacles, and act according to our values, even when it is difficult
- Bravery – Facing fears, challenges, or difficult situations with courage and determination.
- Perseverance – Persisting with tasks and goals despite setbacks, obstacles, or difficulties.
- Honesty – Being genuine, authentic, and truthful in your words and actions.
- Zest – Approaching life with energy, enthusiasm, and a sense of vitality.
Humanity
The strengths of humanity help us build meaningful relationships through kindness, support, compassion, love, and understanding.
- Love – Valuing close relationships and developing warm, caring connections with others.
- Kindness – Showing compassion, generosity, and a willingness to help and support others.
- Social Intelligence – Understanding emotions, social situations, and responding sensitively to others.
Justice
The strengths of justice support fairness, teamwork, leadership, and contributing positively to our communities and working well with others.
- Teamwork – Working collaboratively, supporting others, and contributing to shared goals.
- Fairness – Treating people equally, impartially, and with respect.
- Leadership – Encouraging, motivating, and guiding others towards a common purpose.
Temperance
The strengths of temperance help us regulate our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, promoting balance and self-control.
- Forgiveness – Letting go of resentment and offering understanding when others make mistakes.
- Humility – Letting your actions speak for themselves without seeking the spotlight.
- Prudence – Thinking ahead, making careful decisions, and considering the consequences of your actions.
- Self-Regulation – Managing your emotions, thoughts, and behaviours in ways that support your goals and wellbeing.
Transcendence
The strengths of transcendence help us find meaning, maintain hope, appreciate beauty, and connect with something greater than ourselves.
- Appreciation of Beauty and Excellence – Recognising and valuing beauty, skill, and excellence in nature, art, and everyday life.
- Gratitude – Noticing and appreciating the good things in life and expressing thankfulness.
- Hope – Looking towards the future with optimism and believing that positive outcomes are possible.
- Humour – Bringing joy to yourself and others through laughter, playfulness, and seeing the lighter side of life.
- Spirituality – Having beliefs or values that provide meaning, purpose, and a sense of connection to something greater than yourself.
Discover Your Character Strengths
Reading about the 24 character strengths is a great starting point, but discovering your own unique strengths profile can be a powerful experience. The free VIA Character Strengths Survey identifies your strengths in order, highlighting your signature strengths—the qualities that come most naturally to you and energise you when you use them.
Once you know your strengths, you can begin to use them more intentionally in your daily life, helping to build confidence, resilience, wellbeing, and more meaningful relationships.
Take the free VIA Character Strengths Survey here:
Reference
Peterson, C., & Seligman, M. E. P. (2004). Character Strengths and Virtues: A Handbook and Classification. Oxford University Press.
