I was recently introduced to something I’d never heard of before, the Johari Window. It wasn’t presented from a self care perspective at all. In fact, it was presented partially to illustrate how an undercover cop won some season of Big Brother. As far as I can tell, reality TV is a bane. However, this tool stood out and seemed worth exploring further and ultimately sharing because it can be used to expand our self awareness and improve our interpersonal relationships. When we look at this model we can gain perspective and insight leading to more effective self care.
First things first, the Johari Window was developed by a couple of psychologists, Joseph Luft and Harry Ingham. It consists of four quadrants corresponding to different aspects or our personality and how they are seen by ourselves and others.
1) Open Area: Known to self and others
2) Blind Spot: Unknown to self. Known to others.
3) Hidden Area: Known to self. Unknown to others.
4) Unknown Area: Unknown to self and others.
One of the first things we can learn from the Johari Window is increased self awareness and parlaying that awareness into better self care. When we look at ourselves using the window as a lens, we can gain a more comprehensive understanding of ourselves, our strengths, our weaknesses, our opportunities for growth.
By looking into and uncovering our blind spots with some help from friends, family, and/or colleagues, we are expanding the “Open Area”. We’re moving aspects of ourselves from “Not known to self” to the left into the “Known to self and others” column. This process is uncomfortable but leads to personal growth and better self care practices. The increased transparency also leads to more authenticity and stronger sense of self. Both crucial for effective self care.
Using the Johari Window as a lens will also help us improve communication skills undoubtedly building stronger relationships. Expanding the Open “Known to self” quadrant reduces the Hidden “Not know to others” quadrant. In doing this, by sharing more about ourselves, being vulnerable, we create deeper connections and a stronger support system. Our network of support is vital for topping off mental health and overall well being. Trust is an important part of our relationships so being open to feedback creates mutual trust and understanding.
The Johari Window encourages continuous personal growth and introspection. When we actively seek new experiences we’re exploring the Unknown quadrant of our personality. Self discovery leads to growth and a more granular understanding of our needs and desires. As we gain these insights into our blind spot, we should set better self care goals for ourselves.
Some action items for using the Johari Window to sharpen our self care practice:
1) Regularly seek feedback from trusted individuals about how they perceive you.
2) Practice self reflection through journaling and meditation to explore your hidden/unknown areas
3) Engage in open and honest communication with others to expand your Open Area and building stronger relationships.
Utilizing the Johari Window as a lens through which we can see ourselves differently will ensure we develop a more robust understanding of ourselves, improve our relationships, and create better self care practices. Our increased self awareness leads to greater overall well being, and more fulfilling life. Ultimately this positive energy cascades outward improving client outcomes. Wins all around.
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