How Can You Identify Your Strengths?

Identifying and leveraging your personal strengths is key to personal growth, professional success, and a fulfilling life. But how can you best figure out what your strengths are? In this article, I’ll explore two approaches to identifying strengths: test-based and non-test-based. While test-based methods rely on standardized assessments and questionnaires, non-test-based approaches focus on self-reflection, feedback from others, and observing your own experiences. Each method has its pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Test-based methods like the VIA Strengths Inventory or Gallup’s CliftonStrengths offer structured, objective ways to pinpoint your strengths. These tests are grounded in extensive research and provide a systematic evaluation of your abilities. By using standardized processes, they deliver reliable results and help capture a wide range of strengths. Plus, test-based approaches can lay the groundwork for targeted development by offering concrete recommendations for growth.

That said, test-based methods aren’t without limitations. One downside is that some can be costly and may require professional support to interpret the results. Their standardized nature might also miss subtle or unique aspects of your strengths. Additionally, results can change over time as your strengths evolve. There’s also the risk that people might consciously or unconsciously skew their answers to highlight certain strengths or meet social expectations.

Here’s a selection of well-known test-based methods for identifying strengths:

1. CliftonStrengths: Developed by Gallup, CliftonStrengths is based on extensive research into high-performing teams. It identifies and evaluates 34 individual talent themes and provides a personalized strengths report to support your personal and professional development. The test includes 177 timed questions (20 seconds per question), taking about 60 minutes to complete. It costs €29 for 5 signature themes or €65 for the full report ranking all 34 talents.
2. DiSC Model: The DiSC model is a personality tool that measures behavioral preferences. It categorizes people into four main types: Dominant (D), Influential (i), Steady (S), and Conscientious (C). The model helps you understand your personal strengths and work styles. The test involves answering 16 questions for an initial classification into the main types, taking about 5–10 minutes. It’s free.
3. Values in Action (VIA) Classification of Strengths: The VIA model, developed by Martin Seligman and Christopher Peterson, identifies and evaluates 24 character strengths like courage, fairness, and creativity, focusing on positive virtues and personal growth. You rate 264 statements, which takes about an hour. It’s free.
4. The Stärkenradar is a relatively new German test method that works similarly to the others. It takes about 12–15 minutes to identify your top 8 strengths. The test costs €29.

In contrast, non-test-based approaches offer a more flexible and personal way to uncover your strengths. Self-reflection, feedback from others, journaling, and observing your experiences allow for a deeper dive into what makes you unique. These methods let you interpret your strengths in your own way and capture nuances that standardized tests might miss. Instead of money, you’ll need to invest time and discipline.

However, non-test-based approaches have their own challenges. Self-reflection can be subjective and prone to bias. Feedback from others may be influenced by their perceptions or prejudices. It also takes courage and openness to accept and process honest feedback. Plus, these methods can be time-consuming and require ongoing, conscious self-reflection.

Ultimately, both test-based and non-test-based approaches have their advantages and drawbacks. The best method for you depends on your personal preferences, goals, and available resources. Personally, I’d recommend combining both to get a more comprehensive picture of your strengths. My favorite is definitely Gallup’s CliftonStrengths—though that’s largely due to my own positive experience with it, especially when paired with the right development tools.