Clifton Strengths

A belief in strengths-based psychology is one of three foundational philosophies that informs the approach our Careers & Experience department takes in supporting students in all Faculties and programs, both at Western and the Affiliate University Colleges (Huron & King's).

Historically, the field of psychology has focused on interventions that decrease an individual's misery. Don Clifton, recognized as the "father" of strengths-based psychology and the "grandfather" of positive psychology, saw an opportunity to supplement this traditional science -- a way to build the "enabling conditions of life." Don spent the majority of his life researching and inventing ways to help people maximize their infinite potential. To understand not only who they are, but who they can become. His work led him to invent the CliftonStrengths assessment (formerly Clifton StrengthsFinder), used by millions of people to discover their natural talents -- what they do best.

In 1999, the CliftonStrengths assessment was launched, an assessment which has now been completed by more than 30 million people around the world.

 

white quotationStrengths science answers questions about what's right with people rather than what's wrong with them.

- Don Clifton, CliftonStrengths  


Strengths @ Western

Western Student Experience has partnered with Gallup Inc. to bring you the CliftonStrengths for Students assessment, which will help you:

    • Improve self-awareness by discovering what you naturally do best
    • Thrive in and out of school by applying your talents to every area of your life
    • Improve performance in the classroom, at work, and everywhere else, thanks to proven advice and ideas for applying CliftonStrengths in different settings
    • Explain in a positive way who you are to peers, friends, and family using a common language of CliftonStrengths shared by more than 30 million people
    • Succeed in spite of your weaknesses using concepts and strategies that help you focus time and energy on your areas of greatest potential

 

Find out more about your strengths here!

 

2024 Strengths Workshop Series

If you haven't had the chance to take the CliftonStrengths assessment yet through other initiatives, consider attending the 2024 Strengths Workshop series. Registration includes access to the CliftonStrengths assessment!

See dates and register