Choosing Strengths

What are our strengths and where do they come from?

We may think of strengths as qualities we inherit (such as patience, resilience or kindness), resources we gather (such as a house, a computer or a car) or skills we learn as we journey through life (such as a profession or other skills and talents such as fixing an engine, growing a garden or casting a fishing line). But we can also think of our strengths as choices we make.

Choosing Strengths is a set of 36 cards developed in the rich traditions of choice theory and strengths-based practice. Each beautifully illustrated card identifies a potential strength that anyone can choose to cultivate and make their own.

A powerful tool for social work, counselling, family and youth work, and building organisational culture, Choosing Strengths reminds us that our strengths are in our own hands.

• 36 laminated, full-colour cards (200mm x 120mm) in a sturdy folio box

BONUS: Free access to the Choosing Strengths Digital Toolbox

• Digital version of the cards and a digital booklet full of ideas for using the cards
• Extra support resources including ideas bank, card hacks and blogs

To use the digital toolbox, simply create a customer account. All digital products follow our Digital Usage Policy – see Copyright and Digital Usage for details.

• Workshop opener: Pick a card that is a strength you think you have—or that someone else has noticed in you. How did you grow this strength? Describe how you use this strength.
• For teams: Which strengths do your team/community choose often? Which would you like to see your team/community grow or develop?
• Choosing strengths: Think of a challenge you’re facing. Pick a card that you think would be helpful. If you were choosing to practice this strength, what would other people notice you doing?
• In classrooms: Create a ‘lucky dip’ of cards. Students can choose a strength of the day or week to notice and practice. A great way to build a strengths culture in your classroom.

For more inspiration, explore our Ideas Bank.