Unlocking the Johari Window

Today, we're going to dive into the fascinating world of the Johari Window—a powerful model that can help you boost your self-awareness, improve your relationships, and navigate group dynamics.

The Johari Window is all about helping us become more self-aware and understand who we truly are. And you know what? That can lead us to be more genuine, open, and form deeper connections with others.

"Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom." - Aristotle

Let's break it down. The Johari Window is like a big window with four sections. Each section represents different aspects of ourselves and what others know about us. Picture this: on the x-axis, we have what we know and don't know about ourselves, and on the y-axis, we have what others know and don't know about us. Simple enough, right? let's explore the four sections:

Section 1: The Open Area/Arena

This section is all about what we know about ourselves and what others know about us. No secrets here! It's like the "I know, you know" window. In this space, we openly share our personality, values, and experiences. For example, people who know me know that I'm direct, have a positive attitude, and care deeply about my family and friends. This section is where we're fully aware of who we are and happily communicate it to others. So, what about you? Take a moment to think about what you would put in this section for yourself.

• Think about what you would put in this section for yourself.

Section 2: The Hidden Area

This section is where we keep things under wraps—our fears, past experiences, and personal dreams. It's like our secret hideout. We know these things about ourselves, but we choose not to share them with others. Maybe there's something from your past that you'd rather not discuss or a passion you keep hidden because you fear judgment. The important thing here is that you're aware of these hidden aspects, even if you're not sharing them openly. It's a work in progress, as some things may eventually make their way into the open area when we're ready to talk about them. For instance, I used to keep my emotions hidden until I opened up about them, and it made a world of difference.

• So, what's something that used to be hidden but now you openly talk about it?

Section 3: The Blind Area/Blind Spot

Now, the name might sound a bit odd, but that's what they called it when they came up with the model. This section is about the things others know about us that we might not be aware of ourselves. It's like having a blind spot. The phrase "No, no, but you do" sums up this section. It's where others can see things about us that we can't see ourselves. Sometimes, it's a wake-up call. A friend might point out that you can be self-centered without you even realizing it. sometimes its nice to realize and sometime it hurt to know but in both cases it's an opportunity to grow. It's like having a friend, a family member, a mentor or a coach act as your personal mirror, helping you become a better version of yourself.

• Can you recall a time when someone pointed something out to you that you hadn't noticed before?

Section 4: The Unknown Area

This section is a bit mysterious. It's the land of "I don't know, you don't know." Basically, it represents the undiscovered part of ourselves that neither we nor others are aware of—yet. It's like uncharted territory. But here's the cool part: as we have new experiences and grow, we uncover hidden gems about ourselves. It's like trying a rollercoaster for the first time and realizing you love it. Something you didn't know about yourself, and nobody else did either. This section reminds us that there's always more to learn and discover about who we are.

• Have you ever had an experience that taught you something new about yourself?

So, my friend, can the Johari Window help you increase self-awareness and self-perception? Take some time to explore each of the sections, reflect on your own traits, and seek feedback from trusted friends or family. Give it a shot and let me know how it goes. Until next time, keep growing, keep learning, and keep shining and remember

"The greatest discovery in life is self-discovery. Until you find yourself, you will always be someone else. Become yourself." - Myles Munroe