You don’t know what you don’t know.
Are you familiar with the Johari Window? It’s a great follow-up to our discussion on the need to be self-aware.
Created by psychologists Joseph Luft and Harrington Ingham (they blended their names for the title), the intent is to help increase self-awareness, and to better understand and relate to others.
The four panes of the window represent the following:
OPEN
The four panes of the window represent the following:
OPEN
The open area is what we are aware of and what others also know about us. This includes our attitudes, behaviors, motivation, values, magic dust, and way of life. (Often referred to as “open books”).
HIDDEN
Our hidden area is not known to others unless we choose to disclose it. It’s up to us to share or not to share; our friends/colleagues are unaware of this part of us until we decide to open up to them.
BLIND
In the blind area, there are things about ourselves which we do not know but that others can see more clearly, or things we imagine to be true of ourselves but that others do not see at all. When others say what they see (feedback), in a supportive, responsible way, and when we truly listen, we are positioned to test the reality of who we are and grow.
UNKNOWN
It is through disclosure and feedback that our open pane is expanded and that we gain access to the potential within us represented by the unknown pane. We are often more rich and complex than what we, and others, are aware of. Sometimes something happens – is felt, read, heard, dreamed – something from our unconscious is revealed. At that time we become aware of what we have never “known” before.
Understanding the concept of the Johari Window will increase levels of success; we will build trust as we expand our “hidden” self, and being receptive to feedback will provide growth opportunities.
What actions are you taking to expand your OPEN pane?
Mike and Jan