I often use the model of the Johari Window to explain to my clients how counselling can help them to make sense of the unknown areas of themselves.  The Johari Window is a simple tool that highlights the relevance of self-awareness and the benefits of transparency with others.  This model was developed by Joseph Luft and Harry Ingham in the 1950’s.

Quadrant 1. The known quadrant is an area that is known by you and is also known by others. When we interact in this area with others we are at our most comfortable and good connections with others often occur.

Quadrant 2. The blind quadrant is an area that is unknown by you yet is clear as day to others. Have you ever had someone point out to you a mannerism or a word that you use on repeat that you were totally unaware of? When something unknown about you is pointed out it can be quite a jolt when it becomes conscious.

Quadrant 3. The hidden quadrant is an area that is known by you and what you consciously keep hidden from others. There is often a good reason why individuals choose to hide personal feelings and facts about themselves. This is a sensitive area and the extent to when, and to whom, an individual discloses their feelings and any personal information needs to be the choice of the individual.

Quadrant 4. The unknown quadrant is an area that is unknown to you and unknown by others. This area involves behaviours and feelings that become patterns that you do not feel in control of. An example of this would be an individual continuously becoming involved in destructive relationships. Or an individual may emotionally react to certain situations in ways that they feel unable to change.  This area could also involve repressed or subconscious feelings rooted in past traumatic events. Counselling is an ideal environment to make sense of this area.

The Johari Window suggests that through self -disclosure and the receiving of constructive feedback from others the known area can increase and at the same time there can be a reduction in the hidden, blind and unknown areas. This is a clear and simple model of how self-awareness and personal growth can be achieved, which in turn can enhance your emotional intelligence and your relationships with others.

I would be very interested if any aspects of your life fit within this model?

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog.

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