One of the key factors about emotional intelligence laid out by Dr. Jeanne Segal, is self-awareness. Self-awareness is described by Dr. Segal as the ability “to control impulsive feelings and behaviors, manage your emotions in healthy ways, take initiative, follow through on commitments, and adapt to changing circumstances.”
Self-awareness in psychology 101 was often conveyed through the Johari Window Model. This model provided in quadrants (image provided above): Open/self-area or arena; Blind Self (Blind Spot); Hidden area of Façade; Unknown Area. Each of the different windows are described below:
The goal for someone to obtain more self-awareness is through openness, connectedness, binding of oneself and their relationships. To do so one must shrink all quadrants besides the top left quadrant of open/self-arena (see image below).
How to shrink the unknown quadrants to enhance self-awareness?
Gaining self-awareness provides the ability to improve your capability to identify accurate emotions, understand self-perceptions, understand and utilize your strengths, build self-confidence, and self-reliance. Therefore, to gain overall improvements in your emotional intelligence begin looking at the Johari Window to help gain self-awareness. If you need help please reach out to those around you or to a professional. You can obtain professional help at NWI Clarity Clinic by calling 219-595-0043 or schedule a session online at www.claritynwi.com
Ann-Marie Sands, LCSW
Clinical Director
Clarity Clinic NWI
Luft, J.; Ingham, H. (1955). "The Johari window, a graphic model of interpersonal awareness". Proceedings of the Western Training Laboratory in Group Development. Los Angeles: University of California, Los Angeles.
Segal, J., & Jaffe, J. J. (2008). The language of emotional intelligence: the five essential tools for building powerful and effective relationships. New York: McGraw-Hill.