Johari Window Model Results Explained

Upon completing the Johari Model exercise, I became more aware of my strengths and weaknesses in relation to my interpersonal skills and communication style, and realized how much understanding the model could add to my personal development. Discovered in the 1950’s by Joseph Luft and Harry Ingham the model is a tool used to provide disclosure, feedback, and self-awareness.
The open area revealed how evident certain aspects of my behavior, attitude, and feelings were to others. As an outspoken person, I do not hesitate to speak my opinion and will often do so freely. The exception to this is when I am not familiar with the individuals I’m involved with. In this case, my feelings are more reserved in nature and my voice reflects a polite, cordial tone so as to not offend anyone. I understand how this open area fluctuates depending on how close the relationship is with my peers, and how the area can be widened as everyone begins disclosing more of themselves.
One particular example where I realized how the “open” area began expanding was through my relationship with my close friend. Upon first meeting him, the area was limited. The conversations were shallow and I noticed how closed off I was to being receptive. As the conversation steered into a better understanding of each other, however, the body language changed between us and the feelings and attitudes became spontaneous and affectionate.
In the course of the following months, we began disclosing aspects of our lives such as family life, hobbies, and interests. Seeing this through the Johari Model, the “unknown” area became more known to both of us and this occurred through asking questions and genuinely caring. I noticed how when I began self-disclosing, this led to this same thing in others. The relationship was strengthened and it benefitted both of us