Strengths Journal

DESCRIPTION:

Strengths Journal is a linguistic activity aiming to build emotional competence and resilience through reflective writing. In this 40-60 minute activity, students will create personal journals to explore and celebrate their individual strengths, fostering a positive sense of self.

OUTCOMES:

• enhanced emotional competence and self-awareness.
• improved written communication and expressive language skills.
• increased self-esteem and a sense of personal agency.
• encouragement of empathy and understanding among peers.

DURATION: 15 minutes

MATERIALS:

• Notebooks or paper for each student.
• Writing utensils.
• Access to a classroom or a quiet space for the activity.

SKILLS RELATED:

• reflective thinking and self-awareness.
• positive communication through writing.
• recognition and celebration of personal strengths.
• empathy and understanding of one's own and others' unique qualities.

INSTRUCTIONS:

• Introduce the concept of the Strengths Journal, explaining that each student will create a personal journal to explore their strengths.
• Set the journals and writing utensils in a central location.
• Allocate an appropriate time for students to write in their journals.
• Encourage students to reflect on and write about their personal strengths, achievements, and positive qualities.
• After the activity, offer an opportunity for students to share their reflections, if they feel comfortable doing so, fostering a sense of understanding and connection among peers.

TIPS:

• Emphasize the positive and non-judgmental nature of the activity, creating a space for students to express themselves authentically.
• Encourage students to focus on their unique qualities and achievements.
• Remind students that the Strengths Journal is a personal and private space for self-reflection.
• Reinforce the idea that everyone has strengths, and this activity is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate them.

REFLECTION:

• What strengths did you identify and celebrate in your Strengths Journal, and how might they contribute to your resilience?
• How did the process of writing about your strengths influence your understanding of resilience, and what insights did you gain about your ability to face challenges?
• In what ways can recognizing and celebrating your strengths positively impact your interactions with peers, and how might it contribute to a more inclusive and supportive community?