Johari Window: Astounding Self-Discovery and Emotional Intelligence

“Man is a social animal”, the most common phrase known to every human on this planet. Due to its commonality, it might have lost its worth to human ears. Yet it contains the crux of human existence. Human beings are so dependent on each other that they cannot survive all alone. To socialize, communication is a basic tool that holds the human race together. Effective communication has become one of the most important parameters to define efficacy of any type of relationship that person acquires. Relationships are built around people and an environment of mutual understanding, where trust fosters good interpersonal relationships and can be linked to the improved personality of every individual and enhance their performance in any scenario. Knowing one’s own strengths and weaknesses leads a person to the path of self-acceptance. This acceptance engages individuals to the activities that help them in personal growth, while working on their personality and addressing their shortcomings. This process results in self-confidence and this effective communicator not only in personal relationships but also in organizational one.

Self-awareness self-acceptance     personal developmenteffective communication

The Johari window is also a communication model which is an amalgam of many unique qualities with reference to its relevance, emphasis, influence, soft skills, behavior, empathy, cooperation, intergroup development, and interpersonal development. There are four quadrants of the Johari window. Each area contains the information and represents feelings, and motivation in terms of whether the information is known or unknown to the person and whether the information is known or unknown to others in the team.

First is “Open Area” (things known to self and others), is our conscious self that includes our behavior, attitudes, motivation, values, and ways of life which we are aware of and which is known to others.

Second one is “Blind Spot” (things known to others but unknown to self), in the context of information, others may interpret your personality differently than you might have expected. Through efficient communication, this area must be reduced. One way to do it is through feedback that you get from others and by using it constructively for personal development without resistance. This acceptance of feedback enhances communication and personal development.

Third one is “Hidden / Facade” (things known to self but unknown to others), the reason for hidden information might be personal reluctance or lack of supportive element, fear of judgement to share. This includes fears, objectionable desires, feelings, etc. If the risk of disclosure is not taken, the opportunity to learn could dissipate. While maintaining sensitivity and discretion, one should move this information to an open area through self-disclosure and exposure process. This will ensure personal development of an individual.

Last one is “Unknown Area” (things not known to either self or others), consisting of information, hidden abilities, feelings, aptitudes, experiences, and so on that are not known to the person himself and others as well. This area is more prevalent in younger people and people who lack sportive spirit and confidence.

By creating an environment which promotes the process of constructive observation and exchange of feedback among persons, instills a spirit of self-discovery. Two main ideas of Johari window help to develop smooth relationships;

I. trust can be acquired by revealing information about you to others and

               II. learning yourselves from their feedbacks.

It is very important to understand that the more passionate we are about our self-awareness, and the more we trust “our” others, the more we can expand our Open windows.

Through this model, the self-awareness leads to develop a congruent and emotionally intelligent personality. One can be more productive and successful at what she/he does and help others to be more productive and successful. Having such a balanced personality can reduce stress for individuals and others, by decreasing conflict, improving relationships, understanding, increasing stability, continuity, and harmony. One should not forget that your blind spots are the white elephant in your life. You know it is in the room, but you prefer not to confront or talk about it. Self-awareness is a never-ending journey.