Invest 14 days, 8 minutes each - and consciously experience your day: Notice the positive moments, recognize the valuable contributions of others and become aware of your own strengths.
Scientifically sound
And, as usual with PERMA-Lead, the whole thing is scientifically sound: 95 % of the almost 100 participants reported that the exercise, which is available here in a slightly modified form for the Download is a positive change and enrichment. The first and third questions were perceived as relatively easy, while the second and fourth questions provided the greatest insight. Over time, the exercise became easier for many, and some began to consciously look for situations during the day that they could write down later. The fourth question in particular, which focused on strengths, had a deeper impact than a simple strengths question. Many participants only recognized their strengths after a few days and reported "chain effects" in which one recognized strength made them aware of others. The exercise led to a change in the focus of perception and helped the participants to get to know themselves better. Despite the small amount of time required - just two hours over two weeks - the exercise had a significant effect (Source: Ebner, M. (2024). Positive leadership in practice. Facultas. Vienna; Ebner, M. (2017). 4-Evening-Questions: A simple tool with a profound effect. Organizational Consulting, Supervision, Coaching, 24(3), 269-282).
Tetris effect
The exercise also has an exciting side effect: managers who complete this exercise will also try to recognize strengths in their employees. This is due to the so-called TETRIS effect. People begin to see these patterns in other areas of life through repeated exposure to a particular task or experience. The term comes from the video game "Tetris", in which players have to arrange falling blocks so that they form complete rows. People who played Tetris intensively reported that they also began to see and "sort" objects or situations like Tetris blocks in their everyday lives outside of the game. For me personally, I would call this effect the baby carriage effect because I have experienced it myself. If you look into buying one, you will only see baby carriages everywhere.
In our context, this means that when managers focus on their own strengths and try to make use of them, they automatically focus more on these positive qualities - including in their employees. As a result, they develop a greater awareness of their employees' potential and the likelihood that it will be actively utilized increases.
PERMA factors
This tool contributes to almost all PERMA lead factors. One consciously takes positive Emotions true. Essentially, it is about recognizing your own strengths (Commitment). This may also have an impact on employees through the Tetris effect. You also become aware of which people have contributed to positive feelings (strengthens sustainable relationships - Relationship) and you realize what you have achieved (Accomplishment). A great tool!
Download
You can find the exercise and instructions here free for download. I wish you great insights with this tool!
