short essay on personality development

Psychology Discussion

Essay on personality development.

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After reading this essay you will learn about Personality Development:- 1. Definition of Personality Development 2. Characteristics of Personality Development 3. Three Cases 4. Freudian Analysis 5. Swami Vivekananda’s Concept.

• Swami Vivekananda’s Concept of Personality Development

Essay # 1. Definition of Personality Development:

Personality is concerned with the psychological pattern of an individual— the thoughts, emotions and feelings—that are unique to a person. In fact, the totality of character, attributes and traits of a person are responsible for molding his personality.

These inherent personality traits and the different soft skills interact with each other and make a person what he or she is. It helps bring out a number of intrinsic qualities of a person, which are a must in any responsible position.

In simple words, personality is a set of qualities that make a person distinct from another. The word ‘personality’ originates from the Latin word ‘persona’, which means a mask. In the theatre of the ancient Latin-speaking world, the mask was just a conventional device to represent or typify a particular character.

It is the sum of the characteristics that constitute the mental and physical being of a person including appearance, manners, habits, taste and even moral character. The personality of a person is how he presents himself to the world; it is how others see him.

It has been aptly said:

Reputation is what people think you are.

Personality is what you seem to be.

Character is what you really are.

When we do something again and again, we form a habit. Ultimately these habits form a particular behaviour. If they recur frequently, they become a part of our psyche. They are reflected in all our activities—what we say, what we do, how we behave in certain circumstances and even in how we think. They become the core of our personality.

Personality analysis is thus a methodology for categorizing the character and behaviour of a person. Personality is made up of some characteristic pattern of thoughts, feelings and behaviour that make one person different from others.

Each of these individual attributes has its own individual characteristics, as indicated in Table 1.1.

Table 1.1 Personality Attributes and their Characteristics:

According to a theory expostulated by Carl Jung (1875-1961), a contemporary of Freud, all personal characteristics are a by-product of two fundamental attitude types: introversion and extroversion. Extroverts are optimistic, outgoing and confident, while introverts are averse to going out and facing the world outside.

Besides introversion and extroversion, different temperaments of indi­viduals play an important role in determining their personality. Long ago, Greek physician Hippocrates put forward the theory that the temperament of a person is dependent on certain fluids (which he calls ‘humor’) present in the human body.

Disproportionate mixtures and increase of any of the humors causes a change in the human temperament.

According to this categorization, human temperaments have been classified into four categories:

Sanguine temperament — caused by excess of blood

Melancholic temperament — caused by excess of spleen

Phlegmatic temperament — caused by excess of phlegm

Choleric temperament — caused by excess of bile

Individual attributes of these temperaments are given in Table 1.2.

Table 1.2 Attributes and temperaments:

This ancient theory of Hippocrates has undergone many modifications but the main principle still holds good. However, these individual attributes are not the only factors that mould the personality: heredity and environment also play a major part in influencing one’s personality. Here are a few comprehensive case studies illustrating the points discussed.

Through the following three case studies, it will become clear that personality is a multi-dimensional issue with the following key characteristics:

1. One’s personality sends out a signal that others read.

2. Consciously different personalities can be powerful.

3. There is no ‘one right personality’ ; it differs by role.

Essay # 2. Characteristics of Personality Development:

Case i: one’s personality sends out a signal that others read :.

Nelson Mandela had a towering personality. The world respects him, and knows many aspects of his personality. Yet, as you read through the different anecdotes of this great leader, what strikes you as a refreshing revelation is that Mandela very effectively ‘worked on’ his personality. He was conscious that his personality reflected the confidence he exuded in others, and his demeanor was a signal to his people.

As stated in a TIME magazine article (2008), during a presidential election campaign. Nelson Mandela’s propeller plane developed a snag a few minutes before landing. Mandela, however, continued to be calm, reading a newspaper. The plane had an emergency landing and Mandela came out safe.

Later Mandela said, ‘Man, I was terrified up there!.. Of course I was afraid!… But as a leader, you cannot let people know. You must put up a front.’ Richard Stengel wrote in this TIME magazine article about Mandela as he reflected on this episode:

‘And that’s precisely what he learned to do: pretend and, through the act of appearing fearless, inspire others. It was a pantomime Mandela perfected on Robben island, where there was much to fear.

Prisoners who were with him said watching Mandela walk across the courtyard, upright and proud, was enough to keep them going for days. He knew that he was a model for others, and that gave him the strength to triumph over his own fear.’

Similarly, while Mandela was always bitter about his long imprisonment, he always put up a positive demeanour about it.

India’s cricket captain, Mahendra Singh Dhoni too sends a cool and composed signal to his team at all times. Even in the most stressful situations, he appears completely in control and unruffled.

Yet, internally he churns his thoughts at all times, with a deft combination of planning his moves and being outright street-smart. He is aware that his unflustered exterior is a signal that keeps his team composed and focused, without losing their nerve in crunch situations.

Personality, unlike what many people believe, is not in-born and static. It can be consciously developed and changed. With conscious effort, one can project the desired personality.

For example, in preparation for an interview session, or in one’s professional career, a person may have to work on his personality. Every role comes with certain personality expectations.

By consciously working on the desired traits over time and projecting the desired ones, one can make a very tangible change to his original self to meet the expectations.

One’s personality is a signal that others read at all times. This includes every gesture and every articulation of the person. This signal is read by the interviewer or by superiors in a professional world. In turn, opinion gets formed and selection choices are made based on such impressions.

In one’s career, it is therefore important to recognize at all times that there is a direct correlation between the personality signal one sends out and one’s career growth. Those who do not align these expectations may get stunted in their careers.

Case II: Same Person: Consciously Different Personalities can be Powerful :

Mandela’s powerful personality always reached his people. Waving hands with a smiling face and wearing bright coloured print shirts showed him as a fulfilled patriarch of modem Africa. His tight fists during his run for the Presidency showed his determined resolve.

Wearing fatigues and sporting a beard while he was the leader of the African National Congress’s (ANC’s) underground wing showed his aggression (TIME 2008). Thus, it is possible, and even desirable, to not have the same personality under all conditions. Consciously working on, and demonstrating different personalities under different conditions can be very powerful.

In a corporate-setting, appearance and body language matter. One’s attire, demeanour and style reflect one’s personality. Hence, it is important to consciously work on one’s appearance so that it creates the desired impression during an interview or subsequently in one’s career.

Case III: There isn’t One Right Personality; It Differs by Role :

In an interview for a global team leader position, an experienced candidate, Seema, was pitted against a well-qualified and outspoken John. Seema had worked in several companies, and led small teams. John, on the other hand, was a brilliant researcher and had primarily worked in individual contributor roles.

During the interview for the team leader position, the interviewer presented a case where the work to be done is split across two teams—one in India, the other in the US. The team in India looked at their counterpart in the US as a threat, and vice versa. Each team wanted to get a bigger share of the pie and own more of the quality work than the other.

When John was asked how he would handle the leadership of the India team, he said he would outmaneuver the US team by demonstrating clear innovation excellence and superiority of his team over its counterpart.

He confidently articulated the many methods he would use to showcase to his management how the work he did will clearly be of higher value and impact. This would ensure increased ownership of the work by the India team, and hence a larger share of the pie.

Seema, however took a completely different view. She said she would first call for a joint face-to-face interaction session between the US and the India teams. The intent would be to break any mental barriers and misgivings between the teams and the respective leaders.

She said it is critical that the teams on both sides of the globe think of themselves as one team—since they both represented the same company, working to win against the competition. Subsequent to that session, the teams will work cohesively, supporting each other at all times, to win more customer business.

This way, she explained, the total work pie can be grown, benefiting both the teams. It would give both the India team and the US team more responsibilities.

The interview team liked John’s aggression and confidence, but felt that these personality traits, while valuable in many cases, were not appropriate for this role. The current role required a strong ethic of teamwork and global collaboration.

John’s focus would lead to more internal strife and competition. He would dissipate more energy on winning internal battles. Seema’s strategy was to build a strong global team and to focus her energy externally to win against competitors.

Essay # 3. Personality Development from the Three Cases:

The three case studies clearly bring out an important learning:

Personality is our identity, as perceived by others. A particular personality can be groomed.

This is well-stated in a video on personality development by Economic Times (2009), which states:

‘Personality development is a continuous process and the evolution of an individual’s personality is linked to his personal and professional growth. It is often multi-faceted, and individuals display different personalities at different places and in different phases of their life.’

‘The need to develop your personality in line with people, place, time etc., underlines the importance of personality development. The process of personality development requires a set of skills that need to be learned and at times unlearned.’

The three case studies bring out the following:

There is no one right or wrong personality. It varies by the role and situation at hand. An aggressive personality that is critical to achieve success in some situations may be counterproductive in another situation. Similarly, an introverted personality may be better-suited for some roles than an extroverted personality.

It is also important to be conscious that one’s personality constantly emits a signal for others to read. Thus, it is important for one to have a deep realization of the role one intends to pursue and its expectations—and work on grooming the desired personality traits.

Essay # 4. Freudian Analysis of Personality Development:

According to Sigmund Freud (1856-1939), personality consists of three structures (Fig. 1.1):

3. Superego

Of these three, the id is absolutely unconscious; it has nothing to do with reality. It acts per the pleasure principle that demands immediate gratification irrespective of the environment. However, such instant satisfaction of the needs is not always realistic or socially acceptable.

Examples of id would be the instinct to grab a beautiful piece of artistry from a museum to satisfy our own craving. Another example could be to want to hit a person in public as a reaction to an abuse.

Next is the ego, which is actively concerned with the reality principle. It intends to realistically meet the demands of the id in accordance with the outside word. Freud considered the ego to be very sensitive and prompt to react to anything it considers unsavory in the outside world that it confronts.

However, having a strong ego has the positive advantage of reacting positively to criticisms and problems. It urges one to proceed forward with determination to achieve the desired goal.

For example, the ego would make the person realize that there is armed security in the museum and there is no way to grab the piece of artistry from the museum. The ego, in the other example, would also tell the person that there is no way to smack the other person who is much stronger physically than him.

Finally, the superego, according to Freud, is the moral branch of personality, which goes beyond being the realistic. It reflects the values arid judgment, including the ones developed during one’s childhood upbringing that forces the demands of the id to be met not only realistically but morally.

Freud believed that one’s personality is based on the dynamic interactions amongst these three components. The super ego would reflect, and realize that the consequence of grabbing the piece of artistry from the museum or smacking a person in public would not only be construed as a criminal offence, but will be morally improper.

The person may instead choose to look at other options to procure at low cost a replica of the same piece of art. Similarly, instead of hitting, stating a counter-point that communicates strong displeasure may be more appropriate. It is interesting to note that all-round development of the personality is also the main theme of the philosophy of Swami Vivekananda.

Essay # 5. Swami Vivekananda’s Concept of Personality Development:

According to the Vedantic concept advocated by Swami Vivekananda, all-round harmonious development of personality is possible if proper attention is given to the five dimensions that are involved in forming and developing the human personality.

Good leadership qualities are the outcome of different types of personality traits.

Psychologists have categorized personality types as follows, based on the Enneagram, which dates back at least two thousand five hundred years.

1. Perfectionists

3. Achievers

4. Romantics

5. Observers

6. Questioners

7. Enthusiasts or adventurers

8. Bosses or asserters

9. Mediators or peacemakers

It is critical to note that an individual’s personality should not be made to force-fit into one of these categories. Inherent in individuals is a mix of personalities, which shows itself in different circumstances and contrasting environments.

In one’s career too, one needs to demonstrate a combination of these personalities that best suits the situation. Each of these personality attributes also bring out different classes of leadership. Working with leaders that exhibit these characteristics at different stages of one’s career can be a great learning opportunity for professionals.

The different personality types can be described as follows:

a. Perfectionists:

Leaders who are perfectionists set a very high bar of expectation for themselves.

They are principled leaders with the following personality traits:

1. Strive for excellence in everything they do—however large or small :

Perfection in content and look-and-feel are both important to them. These leaders are very dedicated, and have an extremely intense work ethic. As a natural consequence, such leaders often expect the same from their people. Their motto for their team is to do every aspect of the job in a way that cannot be improved upon.

2. Foundation built on a strong focus of quality :

To such leaders, a flaw in execution is an absolute no-no. Hence, to ensure flawless execution, they develop and pursue systematic processes with intense rigor. These processes include multiple checks-and-balances at each step to ensure that errors surface in the early stages and get rectified.

3. Lofty standards :

Another characteristic of such leaders is setting lofty standards. They benchmark themselves with the highest global standards, and strive for themselves and their teams to achieve the same. They have internal metrics to constantly compare themselves and their teams against the benchmark. Their high standards make them respected by their people for the quality of what they produce.

However, perfectionist leaders could potentially get slowed down by the weight of their own expectations. It is not uncommon to see programmes led by such leaders getting delayed over and over again. This happens due to the perfectionists’ constant desire to improve, without making a judgment call on the right time to stop, and move on to the next programme.

Individuals wanting to pursue a career in a design can learn from perfectionists. Companies which look at design as their core competency value the skills of perfectionists.

b. Helpers:

These leaders seek out opportunities to assist others. They are often good coaches and sounding boards for their people. Their personality is built on sincere skills to listen to, and to understand the needs of others. These leaders thrive on building and nurturing relationships.

Three key attributes of these leaders that are based on strong interpersonal skills are:

1. Smiling demeanor:

They have a pleasant personality, are optimistic, and have a cheerful attitude not only about work, but also about life.

2. Generously appreciative:

To get the best out of their teams and peers, they are always generously appreciative of the work they do. They do not lose an opportunity to encourage their people and give a pat on their back to increase their team’s enthusiasm to encourage further contributions. They show that they care.

3. Empathy:

This implies understanding the position of someone from one’s own position. In other words, these leaders put themselves in the other’s shoes and try to understand how they would feel if they were in the same position.

Helpers, however, often get trapped in their over-zealousness to please and support many people. Their weakness is their inability to say ‘no’ . They cannot turn down requests from others. Thus, they bring unto themselves huge mental stress as more and more people get to depend on them.

Strong leaders who exhibit this personality trait find a way to overcome this handicap, by coming up with a scalable model with others sharing the load of supporting the people who are dependent on them. Individuals looking for roles in human Resources or coaches/mentors in organizations can build the ‘helper’ personality.

c. Achievers:

These are leaders who excel in a single-minded pursuit of their goals. What characterizes these leaders is their focus and relentless pursuit of moving ahead while removing obstacles that come their way.

These leaders have the following personality traits:

1. Goal setting:

These leaders set aggressive, but realistic goals. They begin with a clear vision of what they set out to do for their work groups and for themselves. They break it up into near-term milestones for the teams—and ensure that the team remains focused on them at all times.

2. Execution:

Achievers are highly execution-oriented and this is their biggest strength. They overcome barriers that come their way. They plan well, monitor risks at all times, and provide for contingencies. They are also known for building a culture of efficiency in their organization.

Lack of efficiency and competence in their teams that slows execution frustrates them. Speed means a lot to achievers—and they do everything to inculcate these traits amongst their team members. Learning from achievers can give a jump-start to a young professional’s career.

By observing such leaders, one can understand the art and science of goal-setting and instill in themselves the spirit of maniacal execution. People with highly ambitious career goals develop the personality traits of achievers and learn from those who practice it effectively.

d. Romantics:

Romantics are idealistic leaders. They crave for Utopia—in terms of where they want to see themselves, and their groups and organization. They set goals that may not be realistic—but ones that ‘looks and feels glamorous’. They are expressive and often excel in artistic pursuits as part of, or in addition to their chosen profession.

Some personality traits of romantics are:

1. Set lofty vision that may not be grounded in reality:

These leaders lack realism. They dream and set goals that are impossible to meet—but create a (short-lived) feel-good ambience.

2. Lack focus and are poor in taking decisions:

Romantics are unable to focus on a goal and take hard decisions that are needed to move forward in pursuit of the vision.

3. Kind and people-friendly:

They are kind-hearted, humorous, love to interact with people, can spend long hours discussing how things should be (and are not today).

e. Observers:

These leaders have a strong sixth sense. They are highly intuitive in gauging situations.

1. Intuitive:

Observers are highly perceptive. They have a keen power to process the events around them, do a causal analysis, and come to their own conclusion. They are more curious than others, and often get deeply entangled in analyzing seemingly minor events around them for a long time.

2. Critical:

The observations made by these leaders lead to critical and sharp conclusions, sometimes bordering on pessimism.

Observers are loners. In fact, they appreciate being left alone and be given the time to analyse situations in depth.

Observers like to be respected for their well thought through views and in-depth analysis. They do not take to criticism very lightly and tend to get argumentative if doubted.

In one’s career, having some aspect of the traits of the observer can help an individual be perceptive of the situation around them, and take the right career decisions.

f. Questioners:

These are leaders who keep an organization honest and move in the right direction without getting into complacency.

Key attributes of questioners are:

1. Analytical skills:

Questioners possess the gifted ability to think on their feet. They have a sharp analytical bent of mind which helps them in finding flaws in arguments and in the rationale.

2. Lateral thinking:

These leaders possess the skills for lateral thinking. When most others in a team are naturally drifting towards a conclusion, questioners bring in fresh perspective and lateral thinking.

3. Articulate:

These leaders communicate crisply and forcefully. They are usually respected for their views. Having questioners in a team can be an asset to ensure an organization does not drift in the wrong direction. They may come across sometimes as negative or ones who slow down the standard process, but they may be ignored at the organization’s peril.

These leaders allow one to think through the non-obvious and thereby avoid risky pitfalls. They also ensure that teams do not get into the trap of group-think in the wrong direction.

g. Enthusiasts or Adventurers:

Enthusiasts lend an air of optimism around them.

They have the following attributes:

1. Variety:

They thrive on variety. Enthusiasts tend to move from one role to another, and even change professions completely over the course of their career.

2. Story teller:

Enthusiasts love to dream a future, and tend to get their teams-excited about it. These dreams may not be grounded in reality, but that does not bother the enthusiasts. They tell stories to their teams about how the world will be in their desired future state.

3. Spontaneous:

They are spontaneous, have high energy and eternally optimistic. Often they have an infectious personality that rallies people around them. Enthusiasts or adventurers, however, fail to sometimes carry through on their commitments. Their execution and attention to detail are sloppy, and need strong people to balance them.

People interested in following a career in public speaking need to have some traits of Adventurers, as they go from one situation to the other, telling stories of successes and new models for growth.

h. Bosses or Asserters:

People with the ‘Boss’ personality are those with high determination and are possessed with a sense of direction. They have a clear idea of the direction to be taken, and are dismissive of other’s views.

Some of the traits bosses or asserters exhibit are:

1. Courageous:

Asserters have strong conviction of thought. They have an independent mindset, and are confident of their approach. They are not afraid to take unpopular decisions.

2. Power orientation:

They love to have the power and even demonstrate the power to their subordinates and peers. They come across as dominating in meetings and sometimes are poor listeners.

3. Supportive of team:

Strange as it may seem to some, asserters fight for their people and protect them in discussions where their worth is challenged. Asserters are strong personalities who may be dismissive of good suggestions from their team members, if these are contrary to their opinion.

Extremely assertive leaders sometimes lead to a high-stress situation in organizations, and often cause bum-out. One who needs to turnaround an organization from a crisis by taking hard decisions can learn from the skills of asserters.

i. Mediators or Peacemakers:

An organization cannot do without peacemakers. Conflicts are common in any organization, and peacemakers ensure these do not go out of hand. While peacemakers play an important, sometimes invisible role in an organization, they sometimes feel frustrated at the lack of due recognition for the thankless role they play.

Peacemakers are characterized-by the following:

1. Good at arbitration and trustworthy :

These leaders observe situations and carefully listen to positions of all concerned. They then deftly look for possible middle-ground. They are trusted by all, because they do not play games and are genuinely interested in a solution. This helps them to be effective in volatile situations.

2. Hate conflict :

Peacemakers try to take the steam out of confrontational situations. They tell the warring parties why ‘winning’ is inconsequential and take both sides to a compromise. They thrive in harmony.

3. Like to be respected :

They have an inherent desire to be respected for the critical role they play in an organization to keep the harmony. But whatever might be the types of personality of a leader, leadership in general means the ability to influence others and convert them to their own opinion. A leader is capable of changing the scenario from you versus me, to you and me.

It has been said that a leader is a person who knows the road, who can keep ahead and who pulls others with him. A leader gains the confidence of others because he has confidence in himself whatever might be the adversities he faces.

He knows that even if he can’t direct the winds, he can at least adjust the sails. He understands how to win the heart of others and win his objective. Leadership qualities can be ascertained with the help of different kinds of personality tests.

Related Articles:

• Personality Development: Definition and Characteristics
• Top 9 Types of Personality Traits
• Personality: Short Essay on Personality
• Role of Will and Character in Personality Development

Essay on Personality Development

Students are often asked to write an essay on Personality Development in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Personality Development

Introduction.

Personality Development refers to enhancing one’s traits for a holistic growth. It’s about improving communication, leadership skills, and maintaining a positive attitude.

Importance of Personality Development

A strong personality helps in better interaction and boosts confidence. It helps us to face challenges and achieve success.

Factors Influencing Personality Development

Various factors like environment, education, and relationships shape our personality. These elements help us grow and evolve as individuals.

Personality Development is a continuous process. It helps us to be better versions of ourselves, making us more adaptable and successful in life.

Also check:

• Speech on Personality Development

250 Words Essay on Personality Development

Personality development is a comprehensive term that encapsulates the improvement of an individual’s traits and attributes, which contribute to their overall character and image. It is an ongoing process that involves the growth and maturation of one’s personality, leading to self-awareness and personal enhancement.

Significance of Personality Development

Personality development is crucial as it enables individuals to enhance their interpersonal skills, which are vital in today’s highly competitive world. It aids in the development of traits such as confidence, optimism, and resilience, which are key to overcoming life’s challenges. Furthermore, it promotes effective communication skills, leadership qualities, and emotional intelligence, which are integral to personal and professional success.

Several factors influence personality development. The environment, including family, school, and community, plays a significant role in shaping one’s personality. The experiences, both positive and negative, that an individual encounters throughout their life also contribute to their personality development. Genetic factors, although not entirely controllable, also play a part in defining an individual’s temperament and behavior.

In conclusion, personality development is a lifelong process that involves the continuous growth and enhancement of an individual’s character and attributes. It is a critical aspect of human development that can significantly influence one’s personal, academic, and professional success. Therefore, it is essential for individuals to focus on their personality development and strive for continuous self-improvement.

500 Words Essay on Personality Development

Personality development is an enduring process of cultivating behaviors, attitudes, and communication patterns that make an individual distinctive. It involves both the improvement of personal traits and the development of a holistic persona that plays a crucial role in achieving success in life.

The Essence of Personality Development

Personality development is not confined to the improvement of a single aspect of an individual; instead, it is about improving an amalgamation of factors that would include the ability to communicate effectively, confidence building, and the overall personality. It can be considered as a tool that helps in enhancing one’s self-esteem and confidence, thereby making an individual more presentable and acceptable in the social context.

Several factors contribute to personality development, including genetic predisposition, upbringing, education, environment, and experiences. Genetic factors contribute to the fundamental aspects of personality, such as temperament. Upbringing and education, on the other hand, shape our values, beliefs, and attitudes.

Environment and experiences play a significant role in shaping our personality. The environment we are exposed to, the people we interact with, and the experiences we have all contribute to the development of our personality. Positive experiences contribute to a confident, well-adjusted personality, while negative experiences may lead to a lack of confidence and low self-esteem.

Role of Personality Development in Success

Personality development plays a vital role in our success, both personally and professionally. A well-developed personality is a key to success as it enhances our ability to communicate effectively, improves our confidence, and helps us in building relationships. It allows us to present ourselves effectively in various situations, thereby opening up opportunities for growth and success.

The Process of Personality Development

Personality development is a continuous process that starts from the time we are born and continues throughout our life. It involves a constant interaction between our innate characteristics and the environment. This process can be influenced by consciously deciding to improve ourselves by learning new skills, adopting healthy habits, and developing positive attitudes.

In conclusion, personality development is an essential aspect of our lives that influences our success and happiness. It is a continuous process that requires conscious effort and commitment. By understanding the factors that influence our personality and taking steps to develop our personality, we can enhance our potential, improve our relationships, and achieve success in life.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

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What is Personality Development ? A Brief Explanation

Gain a comprehensive understanding of "What is Personality Development?" through this blog. Dive into the core concept and its importance, and uncover the factors that influence one's personality development. Journey through the various stages of personality development, and by the end, you'll have a clear grasp of how personality development impacts our lives.

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A person's personality shapes their thoughts, beliefs & expectations. This blog will help you answer, “What is Personality Development?” and will help you discover the aspects that influence one's personality. 

Table of Contents  

1)  What is Personality Development? 

2)  Factors influencing Personality Development 

3)  Stages of Personality Development 

4)  Importance of Personality Development 

5)  Theories of Personality Development 

6)  Conclusion 

What is Personality Development ?  

Personality Development is like a journey where we learn about ourselves and how we act. It's about getting better and changing in different ways. Imagine it as a puzzle where some parts are inherited from our families, like how we look, and some of our behaviours. But as we grow up, the things we do and the people we meet add more pieces to this puzzle, making it unique. 

Our personality starts with things we get from our family, like being quiet or friendly. But as we meet more people and go through different experiences, we change and grow. For example, if we face a problem and learn how to solve it, we might become more confident. This is how our personality develops over time, like a story with different chapters.  

Remember, everyone's personality journey is different. Just like no two puzzles are the same, each of us has our own special way of growing and becoming who we are. And as we continue this journey, it is important to adapt to challenges and discoveries that make us the wonderful individuals we are.

Factors influencing Personality Development  

Personality is a unique trait one possesses. It is also important to understand that various factors influence Personality Development. They’re listed below: 

Genetics  

Our genes, which we inherit from our parents, lay the foundation for our personality. Just like how you might get your hair colour from your mother or your father's smile, parts of how you act and feel also come from genes. These genes can affect whether we're naturally calm or a bit more excited, what we like, and how we handle things. 

Environment  

The places w here we grow up, and the people around us, are like the artists who help paint our personality. Our families, the places we live in, and the things we see and hear all make a big difference. If you're from a big family that loves to chat, you might also enjoy talking and sharing. Or if you’ve grown up where music is a constant presence, chances are that you might develop a love for music too. 

Social interactions  

Friends , and people we spend time with can change how we are. For example, when you learn a new game from a friend who has been kind to you. You can also learn new things about how to act and behave. Talking to different people helps us see the world in new ways, which might make us try new things or even change some things about the way we act. 

Life experiences  

Life is full of ups and downs, like when we win a game, or when we have a tough day. These experiences shape how we deal with things. When we handle problems, they make us stronger, and help us understand ourselves better. So, even though tough times are not fun, they help us grow and become more confident. 

Education and learning   

Going to school and learning new things help s us become better people. Imagine school as a treasure of unlimited knowledge. As we learn, we become smarter and learn how to have meaningful conversations with others, solve problems, and think about things in different ways. Education makes us more confident and helps us share our thoughts and ideas.  

Media and technology  

Th ings such as the TV shows we watch and the media we see online can also affect how we think and feel. Just like a friend who shapes your view on the new game with their review, the things we see in media can shape our interests and the way we look at the world. So, if you like superheroes because you saw them on TV, that's the media affecting your personality. 

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Stages of Personality Development  

There are three stages of Personality Development which we will be discussing below. 

Childhood  

Childhood is like the beginning of a story, where our personality starts to take shape. When we're small, the people who look after us, like our parents or guardians, are the ones who guide us on this journey. They help us feel safe when we're scared and show us love when we need it. Just like a warm blanket on a cold day, their care wraps around us and makes us feel special. 

We watch our parents and other grown-ups and learn how to do things by copying them. It's a bit like learning a new game by watching someone else play first. We pick up how to talk, how to behave, and how to make sense of the world. All these little experiences come together to create our personality. 

Adolescence  

As we get older and become teenagers, we start to figure out who we really are. This is like exploring many things at once. Friends and other people of our age become important. We start to care about what they think and what's "cool." Sometimes, we might even change the way we dress or talk just to fit in. 

We start to discover our own unique interests and values. We begin to reali se that it's okay to stand out and be different. Friends and trends guide us in this period. Ultimately, we emerge with a better understanding of who we are, our strengths, and the special qualities that make us unique. 

Adulthood  

When we grow up and become adults, our personalit ies continue to grow and change. Just like how a tree keeps growing and getting stronger, we keep learning and becoming wiser. Adulthood shapes who we shall be for the rest of our lives.  

Our jobs become an important part of this journey. Imagine a job you really love—it's like a special tool that helps you grow even more. It can boost your confidence and skills, making you feel capable and accomplished. The people we meet along the way, whether colleagues or friends, also contribute to our growth. 

Importance of Personality Development  

Personality Development is an important trait, and it shapes the person you are. Here, we’ll discuss the importance of Personality Development in your life. 

Self confidence  

It is the belief in oneself, the assurance that we possess, the skills, knowledge, and qualities to overcome life's challenges. As we develop self-confidence, our personality transforms and enables us to express our thoughts. It helps us to interact confidently with others and pursue our aspirations with determination. 

When we understand ourselves better, we feel surer of who we are. This confidence helps us speak our minds, have meaningful conversations, and pursue our dreams with determination. It's like having a torch that guides us in the dark. 

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Interpersonal relationships  

Interpersonal relationships are a must have for meaningful connections. Effective Personality Development provides us with this skill, enhancing our ability to relate to others. When we develop the skill of understanding different viewpoints, it makes things a lot easier. It's like having versatility that allows us to build bridges based on understanding. 

Active listening cultivates a space where people feel valued and understood. When these skills are honed through effective Personality Development, they form the very essence of strong interpersonal relationships. They develop trust, understanding, and connection. It makes relationships that are not only enduring but also deeply fulfilling. 

Career growth  

Career growth is directly connected with the development of a robust personality. A strong personality becomes a factor in taking individuals towards success in their professional careers. Effective communication, as shaped by a strong personality, emerges as a key factor in career growth. 

The ability to convey thoughts clearly, both in verbal and written forms, establishes a seamless space for ideas to flow. A strong personality also generates leadership qualities. It helps individuals make informed decisions and inspire their peers. This leadership quality not only benefits personal growth but also contributes to one's professional circle.  

Adaptability  

When we develop our personality, we cultivate the skill of adaptability. It's like learning how to dance gracefully, adjusting our steps as the music changes. This skill allows us to face changes and challenges without feeling overwhelmed. We become more open to new ideas, different ways of doing things, and even unexpected turns in our path. 

Having adaptability means we don't get stuck in one way of thinking or doing things. We can think on our feet and find solutions when things don't go as planned. We can even turn setbacks into opportunities. It is a quality that helps us survive in this ever-evolving space. 

Theories of Personality Development  

V arious theories revolve around Personality Development. Here are the three most famous theories. 

Trait t heory  

At the heart of the study of personality lies the Trait theory. It is a concept introduced by esteemed psychologists such as Gordon Allpor t and Hans Eysenck . This theory says that by identifying and classifying distinct traits or characteristics, we can gain an understanding of an individual's personality.  

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These traits are enduring qualities that paint a picture of an individual's usual patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving. The practical applications of the Trait theory are numerous and can profoundly impact various aspects of our lives. Here’s a list of benefits: 

Cultivating self-awareness:  

Personal growth starts with truly understanding ourselves. By identifying and grasping our main qualities, we begin to learn about ourselves. With this understanding, we can make smarter choices in our everyday life and work. This improved self-awareness gives us clues about what we're good at and where we can get better. 

Effective communication :  

In a world buzzing with interactions, understanding the traits of others becomes important. When we grasp the unique characteristics that shape someone's personality, we can adapt our communication style to resonate better with them. Curating our words and expressions based on their traits paves the way for clearer understanding.  

E nhancing team dynamics:  

Teamwork hinges on collaboration and togetherness, both of which are greatly influenced by individual traits. By comprehending the traits of our team members, we unlock the potential for improved dynamics. Diverse traits can be utilised to create an environment where different strengths complement each other. This leads to more effective problem-solving, innovation, and shared success. 

Psychoanalytic t heory  

Sigmund Freud's Psychoanalytic theory presents a fascinating view of Personality Development. According to this theory, our personality is a complex interplay between conscious and unconscious thoughts. Freud identified three fundamental components of personality – Innate Desires (ID), Ego, and Superego. Each plays a role in shaping our behaviour. This theory holds practical implications that can significantly enhance our daily lives: 

Understanding ourselves better:  

Dedicating moments to self-reflection, whether through expressive journaling or open conversations in therap y allows us to unplug hidden conflicts and emotions that might have considerable influence over our actions. By shining a light on these hidden aspects of our psyche, we gain a deeper comprehension of why we act the way we do. 

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Solving inner struggles:  

As we recognise the equilibrium between our Innate Desires ( ID ) and our Internal Morals (Superego), we can pave the way for resolving internal battles. Understanding the source of our inner conflicts allows us to seek resolutions that are aligned with our values and ideals. This, in turn, guides us towards making more accurate decisions in various life situations. 

Managing emotions:   

When we dig into where our emotions come from, we get better at controlling how we react. It's like becoming a master of our emotions. This helps us deal with tough situations calmly and thoughtfully. So, when things get tricky, we can handle them better and stay composed, reacting more sensibly and positively 

Social C ognitive theory  

Albert Bandura's Social Cognitive theory is like a guidebook on how we become who we are. It says that we learn a lot by watching others and believing in ourselves. This theory says that our personality isn't just from inside us. It comes from how we act, what we're like, and what's around us. Let's explore how this theory can be helpful in everyday life: 

Skill development:  

Imagine if you want to get good at something, like playing the guitar. Instead of just practising on your own, you can watch someone who's already great at it. By copying their moves and techniques, you can learn faster. This works for other skills too, whether it's painting, cooking, or even how to be more confident. 

Goal setting:  

Ever had a big dream, like becoming a scientist or an artist? The Social Cognitive theory talks about something called "self-efficacy". It's like believing you can do it. When you believe in yourself, you're more likely to set big goals and actually achieve them. So, if you dream of something amazing, believing in yourself can help you get there. 

Behavioural change:  

Think about habits or the way you usually act. Sometimes, some things make us do certain actions, like feeling stressed or happy. Social Cognitive theory says we can change these habits by understanding what makes us do them. If we figure out the triggers, we can change our surroundings or how we act to make things better. Like, if you want to be healthier, you can avoid junk food and do more exercise. 

Conclusion  

Personality Development is a constant process influenced by genetics, environment, experiences, and interactions. And now that you’ve understood “What is Personality Development?” understanding the factors that influence personality shall become a lot easier for you. Acknowledging its significance allows individuals to cultivate their traits, behaviours, and overall perspective on life. This journey of self-improvement not only benefits personal growth but also improves relationships, careers, and overall well-being. 

Unlock your full potential with our Personal Development Training courses . Commence your journey of growth and self-improvement!  

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The Psychology of Personality Development

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital.

• Key Theories
• Development Tips

Personality development refers to the process of developing, enhancing, and changing one's personality over time. Such development occurs naturally over the course of life, but it can also be modified through intentional efforts.

When we meet new people, it is often their personality that grabs our attention. According to the American Psychological Association, personality refers to the enduring behaviors, traits, emotional patterns, and abilities that make up a person's response to the events of their life.

“Personality is a blend of behavioral and thought patterns that are relatively stable over time, characterizing an individual's traits and attitudes," says Ludovica Colella , a CBT therapist and author of "The Feel Good Journal."

Understanding how personality develops can provide insight into who someone is and their background while also increasing our understanding of what's behind our personality traits and characteristics.

At a Glance

Personality development involves all of the factors that influence how our personalities form and change over time. This can include our genetic background and the environment where we are raised. While personality tends to be pretty stable, it can change over time, especially as people get older.

This article discusses how personality is defined, different theories on how personality forms, and what you can do if you are interested in changing certain aspects of your own personality.

What Is Personality Development?

Personality development refers to the process by which the organized thought and behavior patterns that make up a person's unique personality emerge over time. Many factors influence personality, including genetics and environment , how we were parented , and societal variables.

While personality is relatively stable, Colella notes that it isn't entirely fixed. "People can undergo changes in their attitudes, behaviors, and thought patterns in response to new experiences or personal growth,” she explains.

Perhaps most importantly, the ongoing interaction of all these influences continues to shape personality. Personality involves both inborn traits and the development of cognitive and behavioral patterns that influence how we think and act.

Temperament is a key part of personality that is determined by inherited traits. Character is an aspect of personality influenced by experience and social learning that continues to grow and change throughout life.

Personality development has been a major topic of interest for some of the most prominent thinkers in psychology. Since the inception of psychology as a separate science, researchers have proposed a variety of ideas to explain how and why personality develops.

Theories of Personality Development

Our personalities make us unique, but how does personality develop? What factors play the most important role in the formation of personality? Can personality change?

To answer these questions, many prominent thinkers have developed theories to describe the various steps and stages that occur during the development of personality. The following theories focus on several aspects of personality formation—including those that involve cognitive, social, and moral development.

Freud’s Stages of Psychosexual Development

In his well-known stage theory of psychosexual development , Sigmund Freud suggested that personality develops in stages that are related to specific erogenous zones. These stages are:

• Stage 1 : Oral stage (birth to 1 year)
• Stage 2 : Anal stage (1 to 3 years)
• Stage 3 : Phallic stage (3 to 6 years)
• Stage 4 : Latent period (age 6 to puberty)
• Stage 5 : Genital stage (puberty to death)

Freud also believed that failure to complete these stages would lead to personality problems in adulthood.

In addition to being one of the best-known thinkers in personality development, Sigmund Freud remains one of the most controversial. While he made significant contributions to the field of psychology, some of his more disputed and unproven theories, such as his theory of psychosexual development, have been rejected by modern scientists.

Freud's Structural Model of Personality

Freud not only theorized about how personality developed over the course of childhood, but he also developed a framework for how overall personality is structured.

According to Freud, the basic driving force of personality and behavior is known as the libido . This libidinal energy fuels the three components that make up personality: the id, the ego, and the superego.

• The id is the aspect of personality present at birth. It is the most primal part of the personality and drives people to fulfill their most basic needs and urges.
• The ego is the aspect of personality charged with controlling the urges of the id and forcing it to behave in realistic ways.
• The superego is the final aspect of personality to develop and contains all of the ideals, morals, and values imbued by our parents and culture.

According to Freud, these three elements of personality work together to create complex human behaviors. The superego attempts to make the ego behave according to these ideals. The ego must then moderate between the primal needs of the id, the idealistic standards of the superego, and reality.

Freud's concept of the id, ego, and superego has gained prominence in popular culture, despite a lack of support and considerable skepticism from many researchers.

While Freudian theory is less relevant today than it once was, it can be helpful to learn more about these theories in order to better understand the history of research on personality development.

Erikson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development

Erik Erikson’s eight-stage theory of human development is another well-known theory in psychology. While it builds on Freud’s stages of psychosexual development, Erikson chose to focus on how social relationships impact personality development.

The theory also extends beyond childhood to look at development across the entire lifespan.

Erikson's eight stages are:

• Stage 1 : Trust versus mistrust (birth to 1 year)
• Stage 2 : Autonomy versus shame and doubt (1 to 2 years)
• Stage 3 : Initiative versus guilt (3 to 5 years)
• Stage 4 : Industry versus inferiority (6 to 11 years)
• Stage 5 : Identity versus role confusion (12 to 18 years)
• Stage 6 : Intimacy versus isolation (19 to 40 years)
• Stage 7 : Generativity versus stagnation (41 to 64 years)
• Stage 8 : Integrity versus despair (65 years to death)

At each stage, people face a crisis in which a task must be mastered. Those who successfully complete that stage emerge with a sense of mastery and well-being.

However, Erikson believed that those who do not resolve the crisis at a particular stage may struggle with those skills for the remainder of their lives.

Piaget’s Stages of Cognitive Development

Jean Piaget’s  theory of cognitive development  remains one of the most frequently cited in psychology.

While many aspects of Piaget's theory have not stood the test of time, the central idea remains important today: Children think differently than adults .

According to Piaget, children progress through a series of four stages that are marked by distinctive changes in how they think. And how children think about themselves, others, and the world around them plays an essential role in personality development. 

Piaget's four stages are:

• Stage 1 : Sensorimotor stage (birth to 2 years)
• Stage 2 : Preoperational stage (2 to 7 years)
• Stage 3 : Concrete operational stage (7 to 11 years)
• Stage 4 : Formal operational stage (12 years and up)

Kohlberg’s Stages of Moral Development

Lawrence Kohlberg developed a theory of personality development that focused on the growth of moral thought. Building on a two-stage process proposed by Piaget, Kohlberg expanded the theory to include six different stages:

• Stage 1 : Obedience and punishment
• Stage 2 : Individualism and exchange
• Stage 3 : Developing good interpersonal relationships
• Stage 4 : Maintaining social order
• Stage 5 : Social contract and individual rights
• Stage 6 : Universal principles

These stages are separated by levels. Level one is the pre-conventional level, it includes stages one and two, and takes place from birth to 9 years. Level two is the conventional level, it includes stages three and four, and takes place from age 10 to adolescence. Level three is the post-conventional level, it includes stages five and six, and takes place in adulthood.

Although this theory includes six stages, Kohlberg felt that it was rare for people to progress beyond stage four, stressing that these moral development stages are not correlated with the maturation process.

Kohlberg's theory of moral development has been criticized for several different reasons. One primary criticism is that it does not accommodate different genders and cultures equally. Yet, the theory remains important in our understanding of how personality develops.

Why Personality Theories Matter

While these theories suggest different numbers and types of stages, and different ages for progressing from one stage to the next, they have all influenced what we know today about personality development.

5 Basic Personality Traits

The goal of personality development theories is to explain how we each develop our own unique characteristics and traits. While the list of options could be almost endless, most of these personality traits fall into five basic categories :

• Openness : Level of creativeness and responsiveness to change
• Conscientiousness : Level of organization and attention to detail
• Extraversion : Level of socialness and emotional expressiveness
• Agreeableness : Level of interest in others and cooperativeness
• Neuroticism : Level of emotional stability and moodiness

The "Big 5" is one of the most recognized models of personality and also the most widely used, though some suggest that it isn't comprehensive enough to cover the huge variety of personality traits that one can grow and develop.

Personality Development Tips

Theorists such as Freud believed that personality was largely set in stone fairly early in life. However, we now recognize that personality can change over time.

Research suggests that a person's broad traits are quite stable, but changes do happen, particularly as people age.

On a global level, people spend a lot of money on personal development, with this market bringing in more than $38 billion annually (and expected to grow). If you're interested in making positive changes to your personality, these tips can help:

Identify Your Current Traits

Colella notes that self-awareness and reflection are an essential part of personal growth. She suggests that you can start by learning more about your traits, strengths, and weaknesses.

Reflect on your behaviors and how they impact your life and relationships. This self-awareness lays the foundation for personal growth.

You won't know where to place your efforts if you don't identify the personality traits you need to work on. A personality test can provide an assessment of your current traits. Pick one or two traits to work on that you feel would help you grow as a person and focus on them. You can try our fast and free personality test as a good starting point:

Identify Your Values

Colella also suggests that it is important to identify your core values. You can do this by thinking about the values that are the most important to you. After you do this, you can prioritize your goals and better reflect on how your behaviors and actions align with your goals and values.

Set a Daily Personal Development Goal

Commit to doing at least one thing every day to help develop your personality. This doesn't have to be a big action either. Even baby steps will move you in the right direction.

Keep a Positive Mindset

It is also important to work on forging a growth mindset , Colella explains. This allows you to recognize that personality is not set it stone and can instead evolve over time. "Embrace challenges, learn from failures, and see setbacks as opportunities for growth," Colella says.

Changing yourself can be difficult, especially if you're working on a part of your personality you've had for a long time. Staying positive along the way helps you pay more attention to the pros versus the cons. It also makes the journey more enjoyable for you and everyone around you.

Be Confident

When you have something about yourself that you'd like to change, it can be easy to let your perceived imperfection reduce your confidence. Yet, you can be confident and continue to develop your personality in meaningful ways at the same time, giving you the best of both worlds while pursuing personality development.

Stepping outside your comfort zone can be challenging, Colella notes, but slowly expanding your horizons can lead to gradual growth. "Expanding your comfort zone involves taking small, manageable steps, gradually pushing your limits at a pace that feels comfortable for you," she explains.

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Giacolini T, Sabatello U. Psychoanalysis and affective neuroscience. The motivational/emotional system of aggression in human relations .  Front Psychol . 2019;9:2475. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2018.02475

Kupfersmid J. Freud's clinical theories then and now . Psychodynam Psychiat . 2019;47(1). doi:10.1521/pdps.2019.47.1.81

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Gross Y. Erikson's stages of psychosocial development . Wiley Encyclop Personal Individ Diff: Models Theor . 2020. doi:10.1002/9781118970843.ch31

Babakr Z, Mohamedamin P, Kakamad K. Piaget's cognitive developmental theory: Critical review . Educ Quart Rev . 2019;2(3):517-24. doi:10.31014/aior.1993.02.03.84

Baldwin J. Kohlberg's stages of moral development and criticisms . J Eur Acad Res. 2016;6(1):26-35.

DeTienne KB, Ellertson CF, Ingerson MC, Dudley WR. Moral development in business ethics: An examination and critique . J Bus Ethics . 2021;170:429-448. doi:10.1007/s10551-019-04351-0

Power RA, Pluess M.  Heritability estimates of the Big Five personality traits based on common genetic variants .  Translation Psychiatry . 2015;5:e604. doi:10.1038/tp.2015.96

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Grand View Research. Personal development market size, share & trade analysis report by instrument (books, e-platforms, personal coaching/training, workshops), by focus area, by region, and segment forecasts, 2020 - 2027 .

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Personal Development: 9 Skills, Tips, and Examples

Why personal development is so important and how to improve yourself..

Posted June 7, 2020 | Reviewed by Gary Drevitch

I am obsessed with personal development because it's helped me completely change my life. Only 10 years ago, I had no connections, no money, and worked a minimum wage retail job. Now, I have a Ph.D. from Berkeley, am the author of a book on how to generate happiness in the technology age , and have created a variety of well-being-boosting programs . And it's all because I worked on developing myself. So how do you make personal development work for you?

Personal development can include any skill that you build to improve yourself—your emotions, thoughts, or behaviors. It doesn't really matter which skills you want to improve; the key to personal development is taking the right steps—steps that help ensure that you reach whatever goal you are pursuing.

Learn more from the video below:

What are the most important personal development skills? It really depends on what you're trying to achieve. But here are 9 that I have found to be important to successful personal development.

1. Start by figuring out which personal development skills you need to build. The first step in any personal development strategy is to figure out how to best use your time. It makes little sense to learn how to code if you don't plan to be a coder or to bench press 400 pounds if you don't plan to be a weight lifter. These can be hobbies, but personal development is more about building skills to reach your personal goals . So it's good to take some time to self-reflect. (If well-being is a goal of yours, take this well-being quiz to see which skills you need to build.)

2. Develop entrepreneurial thinking. Everyone can benefit from learning how to think like an entrepreneur, regardless of whether or not you are one. Why? Because entrepreneurs are innovative, good at planning for all possible outcomes, and skilled at getting others to buy into their vision or dream. And perhaps more importantly for personal development, they tend to be adaptable to all sorts of situations.

By developing entrepreneurial thinking, you better adapt to whatever your circumstances are so you can more easily achieve your goals, whether those goals are to start a business that makes a positive impact in the world , to set yourself up for an early retirement , or climb Mount Everest.

3. Develop a growth mindset . If we have a “fixed mindset,” we may shy away from challenges that could help us grow. But this can be problematic because our fear of making mistakes can lead us to avoid challenges and new experiences—experiences which would help us grow, improve ourselves in important ways, and create the life we desire.

If we have a “ growth mindset ” we seek out challenges because we value learning and growth more than we value feeling smart or knowing what we’re doing. That's why those with a growth mindset often build new skills more easily: They believe they can and so they really work at it.

4. Develop your self-soothing mechanism. High levels of stress are not only bad for our health and well-being, they can prevent us from effectively pursuing and achieving our self-development goals. By learning effective, long-lasting relaxation techniques , your body and mind will be more equipped to handle the inevitable challenges that arise when you're trying to develop yourself.

5. Develop resilience . Resilience is that super-important skill that helps you bounce back quickly after being knocked down. This is one of the most important skills for success because none of us will achieve anything if we don't keep trying when we fail. We can build resilience by improving skills like emotion-regulation , mindfulness , and positivity.

6. Develop your value compass. It's not always easy to live by our core values . But when we go through life without following our personal values, we can easily get lost. We may suddenly "wake up" and realize that we are not who we want to be or where we want to be. This is why it's so important to stay in alignment with our personal values.

What are your values? Perhaps: kindness, curiosity, creativity , hard work, or personal relationships. Define your personal values so you know which actions are in alignment with those values.

7. Create a personal development plan. A good personal development plan takes all these factors into consideration—the WHAT, the HOW, the WHY, and the WHEN. And it focuses on long-term goals . So ask yourself:

• What skills will you build?
• How will you build them?
• Why will you build them?
• And when will you build them?

It can be helpful to create a 10-year plan to map out how you'll reach these goals.

8. Record your progress towards personal development. Keeping track of our progress as we move toward our personal development goals is key to making sure we're on the right track. Then we can pause and take a different direction if we've gone off course. By maintaining self-awareness and frequently checking in with ourselves, we can identify things that we need to devote more attention to. As a result, we can make better progress toward our personal development.

9. Keep developing yourself in new ways. The science is clear: The more ways we develop ourselves, the broader our skillset, and the more success we tend to have. So try learning some new emotional skills or do some activities to build new skills. You just might learn something that changes your life.

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How to Masterfully Describe Your Personality in an Essay: A Step-by-Step Guide 2023

Introduction

Step 1: self-reflection and introspection, step 2: identifying core values and beliefs, step 3: gathering evidence and examples.

• Step 4: Show, don't tell

Step 5: Structuring your essay effectively

Step 6: balancing self-awareness and humility, step 7: seeking feedback and editing.

Describing your personality in an essay is not simply an exercise in self-expression; it is a transformative process that allows you to artfully communicate and convey the intricate nuances of your character to the reader. By delving into the depths of your self-awareness, personal growth, and the values that serve as the compass guiding your actions and decisions, you embark on a journey of self-discovery and introspection. In this comprehensive step-by-step guide , we will navigate the intricacies of crafting a compelling personality description in your essay, providing you with the necessary tools to masterfully articulate your unique qualities, experiences, and perspectives.

At its core, the act of describing your personality in an essay is an opportunity to authentically showcase who you are. It is a platform to illuminate the multifaceted nature of your being, unveiling the layers that make you distinct and individual. Through self-reflection and introspection , you delve into the recesses of your soul, gaining a deeper understanding of your own personality traits and characteristics. This process of self-exploration allows you to unearth the strengths that define you and the weaknesses that provide opportunities for growth.

Identifying your core values and beliefs is another essential step in effectively describing your personality. By exploring your fundamental principles and ideals, you gain insight into the motivations behind your actions and the driving force behind your decisions . These values serve as the undercurrent that weaves together the fabric of your personality, giving coherence and purpose to your thoughts and behaviors. Understanding how your personality traits align with your core values enables you to articulate a more comprehensive and authentic depiction of yourself.

To breathe life into your personality description, it is crucial to gather evidence and examples that showcase your traits in action. Recall specific instances where your personality has manifested itself, and examine the behaviors, thoughts, and emotions that were present. By drawing on these concrete examples, you provide tangible proof of your personality claims, allowing the reader to envision your character in vivid detail.

However, it is not enough to simply tell the reader about your personality traits; you must show them through vivid and descriptive language. By employing sensory details and evocative storytelling, you paint a vibrant picture that engages the reader’s imagination. It is through this artful depiction that your personality comes to life on the page, leaving a lasting impression.

Crafting an effective structure for your essay is also paramount to conveying your personality in a coherent and engaging manner. A well-structured essay captivates the reader from the outset with an engaging introduction that sets the tone and grabs their attention. Organizing your essay around key personality traits or themes creates a logical progression of ideas, enabling a seamless flow from one aspect of your personality to the next. This careful structuring enhances the readability and impact of your essay, allowing the reader to follow your journey of self-expression with ease.

In describing your personality, it is essential to strike a delicate balance between self-awareness and humility. While it is important to acknowledge your strengths and accomplishments, it is equally crucial to avoid sounding arrogant. Honesty about your weaknesse s and areas for growth demonstrates humility and a willingness to learn from experiences, fostering personal growth and development.

Also, seeking feedback and diligently editing your essay play a vital role in refining your personality description. Sharing your work with trusted individuals allows for constructive criticism, providing valuable insights into how effectively your personality is being portrayed. By carefully incorporating this feedback and paying attention to grammar, punctuation, and clarity, you can ensure that your essay is polished and ready to make a lasting impression . Below are the step by step guide on how to masterfully describe your personality in an essay

Before diving into writing, take the time to deeply understand your own personality traits and characteristics. Reflect on your strengths and weaknesses , considering how they have influenced your actions and interactions with others. Additionally, contemplate significant life experiences that have shaped your personality, providing valuable insights into who you are today.

Your core values and beliefs are the guiding principles that define your character. Explore what truly matters to you and the ideals that drive your decisions . By connecting your personality traits to these fundamental values, you create a more comprehensive understanding of yourself, providing a solid foundation for your essay.

To effectively describe your personality, draw upon specific instances where your traits were on display. Recall experiences that highlight your behavior, thoughts, and emotions. By utilizing concrete examples, you lend credibility to your claims about your personality, allowing the reader to envision your character in action.

Step 4: Show, don’t tell

Avoid falling into the trap of generic and vague descriptions. Instead, use vivid language and sensory details to bring your personality to life. Engage the reader’s imagination by painting a clear picture through storytelling. Let them experience your traits firsthand, making your essay more engaging and memorable.

Crafting a well-structured essay is crucial for conveying your personality in a coherent and engaging manner. Begin with an attention-grabbing introduction that captivates the reader’s interest. Organize your essay around key personality traits or themes, ensuring a logical progression of ideas. Maintain a smooth flow between paragraphs, enhancing the overall readability of your essay.

While it’s essential to highlight your strengths, be careful not to come across as arrogant. Emphasize your accomplishments and positive attributes without boasting. Simultaneously, be honest about your weaknesses and areas for growth , demonstrating humility and a willingness to learn from experiences. This balance showcases maturity and self-awareness.

Sharing your essay with trusted individuals can provide valuable perspectives and constructive criticism. Seek feedback from mentors, teachers, or friends who can offer insights into your essay’s strengths and areas that need improvement. Revise and refine your essay based on this feedback, paying close attention to grammar, punctuation, and clarity.

Incorporating these steps and techniques will allow you to masterfully describe your personality in an essay, capturing the essence of who you are in a compelling and authentic manner. Whether you are writing personality essays, an essay about personalities, or an essay on personality, the introduction of your personality essay should create a strong impression. It serves as a gateway for the reader to delve into your unique characteristics and perspectives. By effectively integrating these steps and maintaining a balanced approach, you can create a personality essay introduction that sets the stage for a captivating exploration of your individuality. So, how would you describe yourself? Use these guidelines and examples to express your personality with confidence and authenticity in your essay.

Mastering the art of describing your personality in an essay allows you to authentically express yourself and connect with readers on a deeper level. By embracing self-reflection and emphasizing personal growth, you create a c ompelling narrative that showcases your unique qualities. So, embark on this journey of self-expression and let your personality shine through your writing. Embrace authenticity, as it is through effective self-expression that personal growth and understanding can flourish.

If you’re looking for professional essay writing and editing services, GradeSmiths is here to help. With a team of experienced writers and editors, GradeSmiths offers reliable and high-quality assistance to students in need of essay support. Whether you need help with essay writing, editing, proofreading, or refining your content, GradeSmiths can provide the expertise you require. Their dedicated team is committed to delivering well-crafted essays that meet academic standards and showcase your unique ideas and voice. With GradeSmiths, you can trust that your essay will receive the attention and care it deserves.

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103 Personality Development & Personal Development Topics

When choosing development essay topics, you need to know some theory. Personal development is a set of various acts to expand one’s possibilities, mindset, emotional intelligence, etc. It is essential to know some terms from psychology, such as personal identity, interpersonal relationships, self-image, and other concepts related to personal development topics

🏆 Best Personality Development Essay Topics

⭐ interesting personal development topics, 👍 good essay titles about personality, 🔔 more personality development essay topics, ❓ essay questions about personality development.

We recommend focusing on the key features of personal development and the spheres that it covers in the first place. Another idea is to talk about the nuances of personality. For such an essay, discuss approaches of different psychology schools to personality development. Whether you are assigned to write an argumentative essay, research paper, or thesis on personality, this article will inspire you a lot.

Read our development topics compilation carefully, and if it’s not enough, check an excellent free tool in the end.

• Personality Development: Michelle Obama For using this theory, it may be important to investigate the family of Michelle Obama, to understand better, what kind of person she is, and how her legacy could influence her personality development.
• Personal, Professional, and Career Development In this case, the mother had a misconceived perception that the chances of succeeding in an attempt to renovate and improve the school were minimal.
• Personal Growth and Development From a personal perspective, the strategy I intend to use to address the issue of diversity in the workplace is to be open-minded and willing to listen to others before making judgments.
• Personality Development: Initial Assumptions One of the main issues of personality development is how much genetics and the environment of bringing an individual up influence the personality.
• Personal Development Plan In other words, this exercise provides this writer with an opportunity to take stock of own position; set goals; and use the unique skills and competencies in the academic as well as the professional setup […]
• Personal Development Plan: Effective Acculturation The personal development plan is illustrated by outlining the personal development objectives intended to be attained and the actions that will be undertaken in order to accomplish the stated objectives.
• Personality Theories- Normal and Abnormal Development According to the theory, this is because the mind consists of two parts. According to the specifics of each theory, this development can be either normal or abnormal.
• Traveling as the Best Contribution to Personal Development In other words, traveling teaches people that there are multiple cultures all over the world, and the cultural peculiarities of other communities should be considered as well. Traveling may substantively improve the life quality of […]
• Stages of Personality Development At this stage, the mouth is the main point of focus for the child and the child spends most of the time sucking and trying to put everything in the mouth.
• Gestalt and TA Concepts in Personal Development and Therapy Process By doing so, it is expected that the he or she will accept and appreciate him/herself, and also the environment, to precise the world and the people around.
• Donald Winnicott’s Theories on Personality Development This is an evaluation of the achievements of Donald Winnicott in his work as a psycho-analytical expert, and how his findings have enabled the advancement of the psychiatry filed, as well as a better understanding […]
• Personality and Emotional Development As such, the best qualities of the family environment that can positively contribute to the development of social-emotional skills in children include the following: Encouragement of initiatives and leadership skills in children can make them […]
• Personal Development in Hospitality Management Most employers in the hospitality sector feel that several skills in the sector should have been taught in the academic institutions at undergraduate levels and that there is an immediate need for hospitality education to […]
• Personal Leadership Development Plan I will continue with such exercises to find answers to existential questions and achieve my personal and religious goals. I identify my managers and supervisors as the best people to offer professional counsel and advice.
• Traditions and Their Impact on Personality Development In most of the cases, a change in the cultural context results in changing the personality of a person. The treatment of a child at the infancy stage largely affects the formation of this child’s […]
• Personal Development: Psychological Difficulties, Sexuality In my opinion the period of adolescence is the most difficult in human life and I think that it would be interesting to discuss the attitude to sexuality with the help of personal development theories.
• Personal and Organizational Development in Banking My career plan is as in the figure below: – My career goal is to find a job in a bank and gradually grow through the ranks as I gain financial management related skills and […]
• Personal Brand and Career Development The “I” brand concept suggests that the potential job candidate and career builders approach themselves as marketed goods and attempt to turn their own sets of skills and personalities into goods, wanted and attractive to […]
• Personal Development Plans: Teamwork and Culture Shock In an effort to achieve the desired level of personal development, it is important for one to take into account the concept of culture. The resultant effect is that the students are able to fit […]
• Personal and Professional Development of Mechanical Engineer The institute of mechanical engineers is licensed by the engineering council of UK to oversee the operations of the field of mechanical engineering.
• The “Nature” Versus “Nurture” Debate and Its Implications to Personality Development Modern personality theories diverge in their suppositions about the constitution and etiology of the interplay between nature and nurture characteristics on the one hand and the effect such characteristics have on personality development on the […]
• Keens Brown: Personal Development Story He grew up in a nuclear family and was the last-born in a family of seven children. Brown has often attempted to circumnavigate the issue by trying to forge a relationship with his children, but […]
• Writing Dissertation: Personal Development Plan The selection of research methods and the application of the respective tools for the assessment of the target setting can be seen as the main advantage of the study since it has allowed producing accurate […]
• Personal Development as a Manager and Leader This paper covers in detail the personal development of the manager, looking in particular at the personal planning, resource requirements, evaluation of the development plan as well as the supporting and promoting of the welfare […]
• Never Stop Personal Development: The Views of Philosophers and Writers Plato sees personality development as a way to happiness; judging by his Myth of the Cave where he reveals the pursuit of knowledge, seeking wisdom, and having a passion for truth as the forms of […]
• The Days of My Life: Personal Development In the given research, I am going to take a look at my won cognitive development through the lens of various cognitive development theories and check the effects of various internal and external factors on […]
• My Personal Psychosocial Development Although I was not mistreated or neglected, I never got the opportunity to view the world as a safe and caring place as a result of this lack of attention. I have had to fill […]
• Freud’s Theory of Personality Development and OCD The ego, on the other hand, is in the middle and manages both the desires of the Id and those of the superego.
• Personal Sustainable Development The sustainable development of businesses is important to ensure the continued well-being of the planet. It is the hope of this project to inform individual consumers of the impact they can make on their lives […]
• Personality Development: Locus Control Personality – the long-standing traits and patterns that propel individuals to consistently think, feel, and behave in specific ways.
• Gene-Environment Interaction: Personality Development One of the studies dedicated to the issue of the gene-environment interaction of fragile x syndrome in twins was performed by Willemsen et al.
• Personal Development of Leadership and Flexibility There is a wide variety of leadership approaches, and it may be necessary to utilize all of them depending on the circumstances.
• Personal Development of Preschoolers Moreover, it is essential to encourage the child to play with other children, as it helps children of this age group learn the value of sharing and friendship.
• Personal Development Instructional Program (PDIP): Program Overview It has been established that the organization applies the personal development instructional program that aims to improve the skills of individual members of the organization.
• Personal and Professional Development Plan The desire to accomplish personal and professional goals pushes people to invest their time and money in various issues like education, training, health and research.
• Leading by Example to Aid Personal Development For example, as the organization undergoes its restructuring exercise, the managers may demonstrate to the employees the importance of the restructuring exercise, and their roles in the process.
• Gender Differences and Personal Social Development in 9-Year-Old Children The causes of gender disparities are clearly outlined in the paper as well as the gender roles concerning both boys and girls.
• Role of Social Change in Personal Development 4% of the population and the married constituting 1. 4% of the population and the married constituting 1.
• Personal Development Plans: Learning Styles Working in the operations department of a bank as a vault custodian, I have increasingly felt the need to develop skills aligned to a sales-based job. In the context of career progression, I hope to […]
• Personal & Professional Development: Gaining Power & Influence According to Javitch, for one to gain power and influence on people, one should identify what to use to influence others.
• Personal & Professional Development: Managing Stress To sum up this discussion about stress and stress management, it is important to put in place the strategies that would reduce stress in our workplace, homes, institutions and the society as a whole.
• Personal Foresight: Its Development and Importance Costanzo and Mackay further argue that the development of personal foresight is a dynamic and interactive activity that requires an individual to explore various experiences, make deductions from these experiences, amassing these deductions for problems […]
• Concise Time Management and Personal Development Suppose that creativity can be encouraged by exploring some of the qualities and characteristics of creative thinkers and the activities/steps that can be undertaken to improve the processes involved.
• Personal Ethics Development in Organizations The ethical system that I apply in the organization is the one where every individual is obliged to do what is right for his or her benefit and the benefit of the organization.
• Personality & Development: Trait Theory and Behaviourism Approach This paper will however streamline its scope of analysis to Trait theory and behaviourism approach in order to; assess personality, account for the extent to which these approaches can be said to truly guide the […]
• Management and Motivation: Personal Development It therefore refers to an aspect that greatly contributes to the efficiency of the workforce in meeting personal and or organizational goals.
• The Low: Personal and Professional Development Ethics A certain code of conduct to govern the profession is required due to the intimate nature of the relationship between a counselor and the client.
• Personal Development: “The Passion Test” by Attwood & Attwood I want to share my happiness and success with them. These are the most important things, which I want to accomplish in my life.
• International Business and Personal Development Portfolio Central to the topics of the module is the concept of globalization, and it is of direct consequence for me since without this level of cooperation and communication between the countries of the world, I […]
• Foreign Student’s Personal Development Plan The second aspect of culture shock is the need to adapt to a new place, with its people, language, and social norms. It models the changes in the morale of the person as he tries […]
• Personal Changes and Development in the Workplace To answer this question suitably, I will have to take a deep look within and consciously decide the kind of person I am and then get my external reality to harmonize with the inner being.
• Personal Communication Skills and Their Development Thus, this reflective treatise attempts to explicitly identify personal communication skills, skills assessment criteria, communication gaps, and training strategies that may facilitate the improvement of different communication skills.
• Zain Company’s Manager’s Personal Development One of the aspects that the firm has incorporated in its strategic management practices entails becoming the employer of choice in the region. To improve the likelihood of success in influencing the employees, I will […]
• Personal Motivational Skills Analysis and Development I know that I am a good listener, I do not have any problems with communication, I am a leader and I can motivate people.
• Socialization Factors for Personal Development The religion and culture that I embrace at the present moment are a result of the interaction that I had with my family.
• Parental Uninvolvement in Personality Development What must be understood is that the analyzed person had parents who were under the belief that concentrating on the development of their business would equate into a better life for their child, since this […]
• Personality Development, Cognition and Intelligence More specifically, a cognitive style refers to an individual’s predisposition to act or behave in a particular manner, and many psychologists usually view cognitive style in the context of a personality dimension that manipulates attitudes, […]
• Organizational Behavior Course: Personal Development Also, an appropriate organizational behavior of leaders and superiors is one of the most essential factors that influence the entire workflow, employees’ moods, their attitudes towards other colleagues, and the desire to work in general.
• Organizational Behavior Development Portfolio During the organizational behavior course, the broadness of the concepts of organizational culture, leadership and management, and power and politics stood out.
• Self-Awareness and Personal Development Theories Killen and Smetana lend support to Skinner’s view of the concept of self by analyzing the societal and biological factors in the development of morality as an integral concept of self.
• Organizational Change and Personal Leadership Development During the meeting she organized with the representatives of Hughes and Raytheon, the project leaders expressed their concerns related to potential risks and the shortage of resources.
• Personal Counseling and Development Theory The nature of counseling is an intricate combination of personal character and values and theoretical research to create a comprehensive approach to the responsibilities of the profession.
• Personal Motivation Skills Development The consideration of multiple aspects of individual and organizational performance may help a manager to maintain sound and open organizational interrelations, build a cohesive team, and increase the working efficiency and productivity.
• Adult Personality and Cognitive Development Personality and intellectual development in adults is the ability to acquire, construct and use this acquired knowledge, memory and cognitive functions in their decision making processes throughout their life. The acquisition and retention of this […]
• Adult Personality and Intellectual Development This essay presents a comprehensive analysis on how personality and intellect develops in adults, factors that affect their development and how to live or work with such developments.
• Google Company’s Personal Development Plan First, there can be no easy decisions when it comes to diversity and the use of quotas is quite a controversial practice.
• Personal Development in Occupational Therapy The proponent of the study decided to focus on the personal circumstances and preoccupation of Nessrine and Hoa due to fact that they belong to the same age range that is suited for the design […]
• Personal Development and Community Belonging Myra always thinks that it is her job to clean the house and always oversaw house cleaning, although her husband and child could help.
• The Personal Management Development Plan The other secondary objectives include; to improve the body of knowledge and skills on areas that are critical in carrying out the roles and functions as a manager.
• Personality Development: “Finding Forester” Movie Each stage unfolds a biologically predetermined sequence in the interaction with social forces and the requirements of the culture, and each represents a critical period of transition in the healthy development of the ego and […]
• The Perspectives of Incarcerated Aboriginal Women in Canada on Personal Development Resources Through the study, the focus will be on the experiences of the women in the programs and the recommendations they have for needed improvements of the facilities.
• Personal Skills Development in the Teamwork In the team, the management ensured that organizational goals are achieved by modifying the tasks of individuals and the organization structure.
• Socio- Affective Characteristics and Personalogical Development of the Gifted Child It archives this through looking at the socio- affective characteristics and personalogical development of the gifted child, and how they interact to assist or hinder the development of talents by the gifted children.
• Children’s Personal and Social Development The theorists argue that the outcomes of kids’ development come because of the incessant dynamic interplay amid the environmental variables, the caregivers’ response and the children behaviours which might influence both the caregiver and the […]
• Growth and Motivation Theories: Application in Personal Behavior, Professional Goal Setting, Social Policy Formulation Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory of Growth Maslow’s hierarchy of needs growth theory states that, an individual has needs that need to be fulfilled at various levels for the individual to achieve personal and professional […]
• Personality & Emotional Development in Children and Adolescents The creation of a positive social environment by the family can also lead to shaping of the children’s and adolescents’ capabilities for the future.
• Personal Development in James McBride’s “The Color of Water” It is quite peculiar though that, in contrast to his mother, who is trying to keep her secret deep inside, James is eagerly trying to find the answer to his secret: “Sometimes it seemed like […]
• Personality Development: Psychological Models and Theories It was this that opened the break to be in nightclubs of Rhythm and Blues, and it was in one of those escapades that she displayed her talent for performing on stage upon being invited […]
• Does Birth Order Affect Personality Development?
• Does Social Learning Theory Explain Personality Development?
• What Is Meant by Personality Development?
• Why Is Personality Development Important For An Individual?
• What Are the Main Factors That Affect Personality Development?
• What Are the Types of Personality Development?
• How Health Care Affects Personality Development?
• What Are the Challenges in Personality Development?
• What Causes Personality Development?
• What Are the Three Aspects of Personality Development?
• How to Find Time for Personality Development?
• What Is Important in Personality Development?
• What Are the Psychodynamic Explanations of Personality Development?
• How Culture and Personality Development Are Linked?
• What Does Freud’ Say About Psychoanalytic Theory of Personality Development?
• What Causes Difference in Personality Development?
• What Is Healthy Personality Development?
• What Drives Adult Personality Development?
• What Are the Theories About Human Nature and Personality Development?
• How Does Literature Support Children’s Personality Development?
• What Are the Eight Stages of Personality Development According to Erickson?
• What Is Connection Between Cognitive Theory and Personality Development?
• What Is Personality Development Disorder?
• What Can Affect Personality Development?
• Do Parents Influence Child’s Personality Development?
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

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Home — Essay Samples — Psychology — Big Five Personality Traits — The Importance of Personality Traits

The Importance of Personality Traits

• Categories: Big Five Personality Traits

About this sample

Words: 701 |

Published: Jan 29, 2024

Words: 701 | Pages: 2 | 4 min read

Table of contents

Definition and importance of personality traits, types of personality traits, factors influencing personality traits, the impact of personality traits on various aspects of life.

• McCrae, R. R., & Costa, P. T. (1997). Personality Trait Structure As a Human Universal. American Psychologist, 52(5), 509-516. doi: 10.1037/0003-066x.52.5.509
• Busraini, N. A., Tahir, N. A., & Bakar, R. A. (2018). A Review on the Relationship between Personality and Career Success. Journal of Business and Social Review in Emerging Economies, 4(2), 143-155. doi: 10.26710/jbsee.v4i2.465
• Plomin, R., DeFries, J. C., Knopik, S., & Neiderhiser, J. M. (2016). Top 10 Replicated Findings From Behavioral Genetics. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 11(1), 3-23. doi: 10.1177/1745691615617439

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Essay on Personality Development | Role of Education in Personality Development

• Essay on Personality Development

Education is an important factor in the personality development of individuals. The school, after the home, is one of the social structures every child will pass through and one of its purposes is to build the character of that child. We shall be looking at some of the roles it plays in this process.

What is personality development?

Personality development is the process of expanding your personality. This may include doing activities that you don’t normally do, but find enjoyable and fulfilling like playing a new sport or trying new hobbies. It also includes developing skills that you already have but are not using to their full potential such as playing an instrument or speaking another language. Developing your personality can also mean discovering who you are in order to better understand yourself and grow into the person that’s right for you.

Character Development

As I stated earlier, the school plays a great role in the overall personality development of an individual.

From childhood, the child is exposed to this social setting and spends most of his day there. The influence that education, which is the major service the schools offer, has on the child cannot be overlooked.

After the home front, the school is responsible for the upbringing of children and their overall character development. Therefore, there should be a deliberate effort to ensure that the character of the child is molded properly during this time. Education is not just about teaching theory to children, but a school environment is a place where a good foundation is laid for children to help in the future.

In school, virtues such as honesty, fairness, kindness, and respect are taught. The teachers and educationists have a tremendous influence on students and they are seen as role models so it is necessary that set good examples always.

You must understand that children learn very well by observation so care must be taken to how teachers behave before their students. In school, there are a lot of planned actions and activities that are carried out in the classroom to help students develop a good character which will help them in life.

I shall go through some of these as I go on. There are some important things that should be put in place to help students build their character.

There are several methods of building character in students and when the character is inbuilt in the student, positive behavior is almost automatic. There are several schools of thought that have provided different pillars that help build character.

Here, I have listed a combination of these pillars to help in the personality development of our young ones. They are:

1.1 – TRUSTWORTHINESS

They should be taught the importance of being trustworthy which basically is to learn how to keep their words. Students would learn the need to be honest and sincere; the need to be a person of integrity and why they should be reliable.

1.2 – RESPECT

They should be taught the need to show respect to others by being courteous, acting with dignity, giving autonomy, tolerating opposing views, and accepting criticism.

1.3 – RESPONSIBILITY

They should be taught the need to be responsible for all their actions and daily living.

1.4 – FAIRNESS

This is a character trait of being fair to all and in all situations. They should be taught the importance of this.

1.5 – CARING

The students should be shown why this character trait is essential and how it tells well of them.

1.6 – CITIZENSHIP

This enables students to learn the importance of contributing to the good of society.

1.7 – TEAMWORK

This character trait would help students learn how to work with others in a team. It helps teach them how to tolerate others and their viewpoints.

1.8 – EXCELLENCE

The student should learn how important it is to excel in whatever they do and that excellence has its rewards.

1.9 – COMPASSION

Student should learn to have compassion for and be empathetic to the needs and challenges of others. To teach the students these character traits, you can spread them out and emphasize one of them each month. The students can be encouraged to research on each trait and can be assigned creative writing projects on them.

Set the rules

In the classroom, the teacher should set the necessary rules that will guide the behavior of the student.

Be clear of what is acceptable and unacceptable. It is also advisable to discuss them with the students. To make this work, make sure that you set an example for them so that it would be easier for them to follow.

You should be kind, neat, and punctual in class. You should also show respect to others and finish your work within schedule. By doing so, they will realize that they themselves do not have an excuse to fail or disregard rules.

To achieve maximum results, the teacher will need to explain to the student the character traits which each rule is meant to build. The teacher can also allow the students to make suggestions on possible rules that would be of benefit to the class.

They should always exhibit positive behavior so as to become role models for the students. It would also be good if a reward system can be put in place to reward good behavior.

Point them towards positive role models

Another way by which individuals can build their personality properly is to have good examples of heroes and role models in various fields of study.

Students would easily want to measure up to the character of someone they admire. The teacher should talk about such people that the students can learn from.

They can also be asked to describe, assess, and match the personality traits and behaviors of those people. The teacher can also talk about the behavior and lifestyle of current world leaders and celebrities and as the student to assess if their words match their actions.

Build a culture of respect

Teachers should teach students the need for them to develop self-respect and understand the importance of showing others respect. They can be shown with examples of the benefits of treating others with respect.

Teach them to talk positively

The students can be encouraged to learn how to talk right. Positive talk produces good results both now and in the future. Show them how their words affect their future.

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Personality Development

Updated 12 December 2023

Subject Myself

Downloads 59

Category Life ,  Sociology

Topic Personality

Personality is the belief, behavior, and value which makes a person who he or she is (LeVine, 2018). Even though it is recognized at birth, personality continues to develop throughout the person's life (Buss and Plomin, 2014).

According to Cervone and Pervin (2015), personality symbolizes the qualities which are consistent across different moments and times in a person's life. Personality is made out of moments people put themselves in and the influences they allow to impact them. The environment can be good or bad, but what a person takes from the situation is what lets them grow and prosper. The environment is essential in personality development because an individual's traits determine how they adjust and react to their environment in different situations (Specht, 2014). People are likely to change depending on the environmental needs they face (Schultz and Schultz, 2016).

Environmental Factors

Various potential environmental factors shape personality. The neighborhood, people around such as family, friends, schoolmates, and church community are some of the environmental issues which can shape a person's personality. For example, a girl and a boy are socialized differently in almost all societies because of the people who give them different messages as they grow.

Impact of Environment

From birth, the environment in which a child is brought up impacts their personalities and continues through their lives. An environment where things are done the right manner is unlikely to produce bad behavior. The social environment creates enough conditions for its appropriate expression. The parents, friends, social norms, values, and people around an individual create an environment that influences their personality growth. The status of a kid, adolescents, adults, and old people in the community is not similar because of the development in their personality depending on their environment.

Buss, A. H., " Plomin, R. (2014). Temperament (PLE: Emotion): Early developing personality      traits. Psychology Press.

Cervone, D., " Pervin, L. A. (2015). Personality, binder ready version: theory and research.         John Wiley " Sons.

LeVine, R. A. (2018). Culture, behavior, and personality: An introduction to the comparative    study of psychosocial adaptation. Routledge.

Schultz, D. P., " Schultz, S. E. (2016). Theories of personality. Cengage Learning.

Specht, J., Bleidorn, W., Denissen, J. J., Hennecke, M., Hutteman, R., Kandler, C., ... "             Zimmermann, J. (2014). What drives adult personality development? A comparison of             theoretical perspectives and empirical evidence. European Journal of Personality, 28(3),            216-230.

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Home / Essay Samples / Education / Class Reflection / A Reflection About Myself and My Personality

A Reflection About Myself and My Personality

• Category: Education , Life
• Topic: Class Reflection , Personal Experience , Personality

Pages: 3 (1298 words)

Views: 38625

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