Sometimes we’re our own biggest mystery, we feel stuck, unsure of what to do next, or even where we stand. A powerful way to get unstuck and chart your personal growth is to do a SWOT analysis. While commonly used in business to evaluate strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, it’s just as effective when applied to personal development.
Why a Personal SWOT Analysis Works
A SWOT analysis helps you take a bird’s-eye view of yourself. By identifying your strengths and weaknesses, you can lean into what you’re good at and address areas that may hold you back. This self-reflection tool can be life-changing for setting goals and pursuing them with clarity and confidence. As Stephen Covey once said, “Self-awareness involves deep personal honesty. It comes from asking and answering hard questions.”
The Four Parts of a Personal SWOT Analysis
Strengths
Think of this section as a celebration of what you’re naturally good at. These are the traits, skills, or qualities that make you stand out.
Questions to ask yourself:
- What skills or talents come easily to me?
- What do others often compliment me on?
- When am I at my best?
Example: Maybe you’re an excellent communicator and have an easy time connecting with others.
Weaknesses
Here’s where honesty really comes into play. We all have areas we could improve on. By identifying them, we can start making changes rather than letting them hold us back.
Questions to ask yourself:
- Where do I struggle most?
- What habits or mindsets limit my growth?
- When do I tend to feel frustrated or defeated?
Example: You might realize that you procrastinate or avoid difficult conversations, which could impact relationships or career growth.
Opportunities
Opportunities are all about looking at the external environment—things around you that could help you grow if you take advantage of them.
Questions to ask yourself:
- What trends, resources, or people could support my growth?
- Are there areas in my life where I could improve by learning new skills?
- Are there mentors, courses, or communities that could inspire me?
Example: Maybe there’s a networking event or course you’ve been eyeing that could boost your skillset.
Threats
Threats are potential obstacles that could derail your progress if you don’t address them. These might include internal fears or external barriers.
Questions to ask yourself:
- What challenges do I face in my current environment?
- Are there people or habits that drain my energy?
- What fears or insecurities could hold me back?
Example: Maybe you notice that spending too much time on social media distracts you from your goals, or that fear of failure stops you from taking risks.
Crafting Your Action Plan
Play to Your Strengths
Use your strengths to tackle challenges. If you’re a natural planner, create a schedule to stay on track.
Work on Weaknesses Step-by-Step
Tackle weaknesses by creating small, manageable goals. If procrastination is a weakness, try a time-management technique like the Pomodoro method.
Seize Opportunities
Take proactive steps to pursue opportunities. Enroll in that course, or reach out to someone in a field you want to enter.
Minimize Threats
Identify one or two threats and work to counteract them. For example, if social media is a distraction, set app limits.
A personal SWOT analysis is a powerful exercise to perform every few months as you continue to grow. It’s an honest, practical way to reflect and refocus on your path forward.
Embrace your strengths, tackle your weaknesses, and let the journey unfold!
