The Johari Window is a simple visual model for thinking about how we see ourselves, and how to improve understanding between individuals. We can use it for better self-awareness and to improve workplace relationships. The title is simply a combination of the names of psychologists Joseph Luft and Harry Ingham, who created the model in 1955.
There are two key ideas:
We can build trust with others by disclosing information about ourselves.
With the help of feedback from other people, we can learn about ourselves and deal with personal issues.
The Johari Window has four quadrants.
The Open Area represents the things that we know about ourselves and that others know about us too. This includes our behaviours, knowledge, skills, attitudes, and ‘public’ history.
The Blind Area represents things about us that we aren’t aware of, but that others do know. These are aspects of our behaviour that we might not recognise until someone points them out.
The Façade Area represents things that we know about ourselves that we keep hidden from other people. Usually to protect our self-image because we want other people to like us or see us in a positive light.
The Unknown Area represents things that are unknown to us and others. This is our untapped potential that we don’t realise we have and the abilities that we haven’t yet explored or developed.
For more information about the Johari Window see:
The Johari Window – Building Self-Awareness and Trust (mindtools.com)
What is the Johari window? – Work Life by Atlassian
Johari Window Model in 4 Steps Free Template | Conceptboard
The following questions can be used for self-reflection or group discussion to explore some of the key the ideas expressed in the Johari Window:
Introduction to Johari Window: What are your initial thoughts or impressions about the Johari Window model? How do you think it can be useful in improving communication and relationships?
Self-awareness: How comfortable are you with sharing personal information about yourself with others? How do you think self-disclosure contributes to self-awareness and personal growth?
Feedback: How do you typically respond to feedback from others? Do you find it easy or difficult to accept feedback about yourself? How can constructive feedback help in expanding the open area of the Johari Window?
Blind spots: Have you ever experienced a situation where others have pointed out something about you that you were unaware of? How did you react? How can we identify and reduce our blind spots to improve self-awareness?
Trust and openness: What factors contribute to building trust and openness in relationships? How can the Johari Window model help in fostering trust and openness among group members?
Expanding the open area: What strategies can individuals use to expand their open area in the Johari Window? How can group members support each other in sharing more about themselves and reducing their hidden and unknown areas?
Cultural influences: How might cultural background and societal norms affect the way individuals perceive self-disclosure and feedback? How can cultural differences be navigated to facilitate open communication and understanding?
Application in professional settings: How can the concepts of the Johari Window be applied in professional environments, such as in team dynamics, leadership development, or conflict resolution?
Personal growth and development: In what ways do you think increased self-awareness and understanding of others can contribute to personal growth and development? Can you share any personal experiences where the Johari Window concept has helped you in this regard?
Want to know more? Let’s talk. Click here to contact me