Self-Regulation
"I manage my feelings and actions and am disciplined and self-controlled."
Become Aware Of Your Strength
Understand what self-regulation is all about so you can begin recognizing it in yourself and others.
What is Self-Regulation?
Self-Regulation is a complex character strength. It has to do with controlling your appetites and emotions and regulating what you do. Those high in self-regulation have a good level of confidence in their belief that they can be effective in what they pursue and are likely to achieve their goals. They are admired for their ability to control their reactions to disappointment and insecurities. Self-regulation helps keep a sense of balance, order, and progress in life. Self-Regulation can be viewed as a resource that can be depleted and fatigued. A useful metaphor can be that self-regulation acts like a muscle, which can be exhausted through over-exertion or strengthened through regular practice.
Which virtue is this strength?
Self-Regulation is a strength within the virtue category of temperance, one of six virtues that subcategorize the 24 strengths. Temperance describes strengths that help you manage habits and protect against excess. The other strengths in Temperance are
forgiveness
,
humility
,
prudence
,
and
self-regulation
.
Explore and Apply Your Strength
Research findings on the benefits of the strength of Self-Regulation found people with high self-control report fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression, are better able to control anger, and generally get along better with people. Children who are most successful at delaying gratification early in life are more successful academically and socially, and that success is long-lasting. Self-regulation is linked with better personal adjustment, such as having fewer physical and psychological problems and having a greater sense of self-acceptance and self-esteem in relationships.
