PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

LESSON 1 & 2

TOPIC: Knowing Oneself

• Lesson 1 – Limitations and Strengths of the Individual; and how the uniqueness of the
CONCEPT NOTES:

LESSON 1: SELF DEVELOPMENT: KNOWING ONE’S SELF

Many of our millennials jump to conclusions about themselves knowing more what, know and believe they do about
themselves and technology has improved this definition through apps and media, especially how they used these
platforms in defining themselves (Social Media and Doubt; Jacobson, 2020) . Their social media profiles give a new
meaning to who they are as a person living in this digital age. However, this does not answer the most and perhaps the
fundamental question, “Do you know yourself?” Often, this question delves into the fundamental entity of ourselves, the
basic question of understanding ourselves, not just through our expressions in social platforms and the like but, deals in
more “How much do we know about our self?” in the process. The Self, in contemporary literature and even common
sense, is commonly defined by the following characteristics: “separate, self-contained, independent, consistent, unitary,
and private” (Stevens, 1996). When we talk about the self, being “separate,” it means it is distinct, different and unique
from others. It has its own uniqueness that defines him/her from others. It has an identity of its own, even twins, may it
be fraternal, is very much distinct from the other. When we are talking about “self-contained,” we describe its existence
as having its own independence. It may exist with or without others; it is self-containing of its own thoughts,
characteristics and volition. For example, we make our profile pictures in social media, carefully choosing a picture that
expresses more of our thoughts, that tells us of what we are, that tells us what we are in real life. Although, in these
given times, it is easy to create another “self” or deceive someone using a make-up “self”.
Nevertheless, although it is relatively easy to make another “self” in this age of social media and
advance technology, the “self” is very much consistent and persisting. Every “self” has its own personality that
is enduring, that lasts during late adolescence. Its uniqueness and its consistency allow it to be studied,
described and even measured (also means that a particular self’s traits, characteristics, tendencies and
potentialities) are very evident and distinguishable from other “selves.” The Self is unitary in that it is the
center of all experiences and thoughts that run a particular person. It is the topmost executive in an
individual where all processes, emotions, and thoughts converged. Lastly, the self is private. A person may
sort out information, feelings and emotions, and thought processes within the self. The whole process is never
accessible to anyone but the self. This suggests that the self is isolated from the external world. It lives within
its own world.

Having in its own world means, you can create or nurture what you can be (ideal self) or maintain/improve
your current self (actual self). The ideal self pertains to the image or aspirations of what you want to
become. This may be similar in hoping characteristics that you do
not possess as of the moment, but may one day be part of who you are, just like what Filipinos tend to watch
in various talent shows. This may be the ability to have a beautiful voice; or have different achievements like
the characteristics of your idols or other international
figures (Michael Jordan, Sarah Geronimo etc.) While the https://dlpng.com/png/3990456
actual self as the term implies “actual”, is your present self that you see on the daily basis. It is the self that
is constantly keeping in touch in your everyday experiences. It has the potential to improve or develop as
deemed by every individual. This may also pertain to the gifts that you possess that are innate in you when
you were born.

Combining these two categories of the self, it established the distinction of the Self-Concept. This is a collection
of beliefs about one’s basic nature, unique qualities, and typical behavior. Although we may have so many
dimensions in which we describe ourselves such as “I’m grateful” or “I’m friendly”, we have separate concepts of
our physical, social, emotional and intellectual selves; yet we are still
referring to one single entity that is unique and very distinct from others (Don Hamachek, 1992). Our various
self-concepts are characterized by relatively distinct thoughts and feelings. That is, we may have considerable
information about our social skills and feel quite confident with regard to them but have limited information
about our physical skills and feel less confident about this aspect of our self. When a particular self-concept is
operating, its attendant thoughts and feelings will strongly influence the way we process self-relevant
information (Fiske & Taylor, 1991).

There are several factors that shape self-concept. Among them are your own observations, feedback from
others and cultural values.
about ourselves. We are aware social comparison theory, people need to compare themselves with others
in order to gain insight into their own behavior (Festinger, 1954; Goethals & Darley, 1977; Wood, 1989). The
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 potential impact of such social comparison was dramatically demonstrated in an interesting
study (Morse &Gergen, 1970).

Feedback from Others

Positive and negative criticisms also create an impact on self-concept. People talk about us or how they
discriminate us give an important aspect in shaping the self-concept. The amount of criticism, feedback we
sometimes freely give, helps shape the current self-concept of what we choose to be or not. As we grow old,
the number of significant and non-significant people in our lives also grows. Everyone contributes in reshaping
the self-concept. Even our ability to accomplish something
or destroy our selves comes from painful remarks or
constructive criticism of others. In child-rearing,
especially the parents, has a unique and essential role in
reinforcing and shaping the self-concept. As children, we
receive direct feedback from them. Their constant
approval and disapproval set guidelines for what should be
or not, shaping and inputting the values and characteristics
of the children and, later, becoming what they are when
they grow. The saying “Kung anoangpuno ay siyangbunga”, is a testament
output family values instilled in childhood rearing practices. Aside from children
comparing their actions from others, they also compare themselves to their
parents. That is why sometimes, even when our parents are gone, we still have their characteristics and
values; we unconsciously accept this as our self-concept, along with their approvals and disapprovals. Most of
us, especially when we are young, take this sort of feedback to heart. Thus, it is no surprise that studies find
an association between parents’ views of a child and the child’s self-concept (Wylie, 1979). There is even
more substantial evidence for a relationship between children’s perception of their parents’ attitudes toward
them and their self-perception (Wylie, 1979).
Cultural Values/ Cultural Guidelines
Self-concept is also indirectly influenced by cultural values. In the study of Cultural Psychology, in this age of
technology and social media, we accept our differences, especially on how we accept the culture and beliefs of
others. Japanese society does not tolerate corruption; the Philippines has always been influenced or has
always had that familial clinging of thinking and protectiveness. The Chinese have always thought to have a
strong business minded stand in their points of view. The society in which we are raised defines what is
“good” and “bad” in personality and behavior. American culture tends to put a premium on individuality,
competitive success, strength and skills. These cultural values influence how we interpret our behavior. In the
Philippines, our cultural values were shaped by historical colonization, which is evident in our present society,
particularly our strong family ties. Another is cultural hospitality that is deemed acceptable as our nature. Even
the dismal corruption that has been the perennial problem of the country also shaped the tolerance of
Filipinos as a way of answering societal problems..

Having Self-knowledge stems from the actual – self. It derives from our social interactions of society that
provide insight into how others react to us. It is the same as gaining feedback from others. The reaction of
other people is an essential aspect of gaining actual-self or our self-image. Even our social roles are adjusted,
on how we view ourselves today, and how ideally (ideal self) what we would like to be in the future. There is
a negotiation that exists between the two selves, which is complicated by numerous exchanges between the
ideal self and actual self. These exchanges are exemplified in these social roles, and they are adjusted
continuously and re-adjusted.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

NAME___________________YEAR&SECTION:________________DATE:______

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 CLASSROOM ACTIVITY
THE TWENTY-STATEMENT SURVEY

DIRECTION: Complete the twenty-statement survey below. Write down the first statements that
come to your mind upon hearing the phrase “I am.”
1. I am_____________________________________________________
2. I am_____________________________________________________
3. I am_____________________________________________________
4. I am_____________________________________________________
5. I am_____________________________________________________
6. I am_____________________________________________________
7. I am_____________________________________________________
8. I am_____________________________________________________
9. I am_____________________________________________________
10. I am____________________________________________________
11.I am_____________________________________________________
12.I am____________________________________________________
13.I am_____________________________________________________
14.I am_____________________________________________________
15. I am_____________________________________________________
16.I am_____________________________________________________
17. I am_____________________________________________________
18. I am_____________________________________________________
19. I am_____________________________________________________
20. I am _____________________________________________________

Name:_____________________Year/Section________Score:_______

Activity 1.3: A “ME” Tree

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 Instruction:
1. write/ draw symbols/ of all of your strengths and talents/abilities- one strength

2. On the branches/ write/ draw symbols or paste pictures of all your

accomplishments and successes- one per branch.

3. Some roots and branches should be left empty so that new elements can be added as they
happen in the future.

4. Lastly, write your name on the trunk of the “Me Tree”.

Activity 1.4: Enrichment

Instruction: Answer the following.

1. How are you going to use the “Me” tree in this time of Covid-19 Pandemic?

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

2. What are your self-realizations?

_____________________________________________________________________
______
_____________________________________________________________________
______
_____________________________________________________________________
______

3.How does your self-realization affect your family? You may ask them in answering this?

_________________________________________________________________________________
_
_________________________________________________________________________________
_
_________________________________________________________________________________
_ Activity 1.5: My Reflection through my Experiences

Instruction: Share your experience (s) on the following statement. Write your answers in a
separate sheet of paper
1. People need to compare themselves with others in order to gain insights of their
own behavior.
________________________________________________________________
_____
________________________________________________________________
_____
________________________________________________________________
_____
________________________________________________________________
____
2. “Kung anoangpuno ay siyangbunga.”
________________________________________________________________
_____
________________________________________________________________
_____
________________________________________________________________
_____
________________________________________________________________
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 _____
3. Corruption is also shaped by our tolerance or our approach to
answering societal problems.”
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________

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 PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
NOTES

TOPIC: Determining Personality Traits

Concept notes:
Lesson 2
Gordon was a Psychologist who espoused the uniqueness of each individual. He focused on the understanding
and measuring personality in terms of traits, which are the enduring and consistent disposition of human
beings. He identified around 200 traits that guide People behavior. The Trait Perspective in psychology in
perhaps the most popular way through which people have come to think of personality/oneself.

Cattell’s classification of Traits

Type of Traits Description
Common traits These are traits which everyone shares ,for example everyone has some
measure of intelligence or extraversion.
Unique traits These are traits that distinguish us as individuals, for example an interest in
politics or sports such as basketball.
Ability traits Skills or abilities that determine how well we can work toward our goals.
Temperament traits Emotions or feelings that determine how we react to people and situations,
examples include include assertiveness and and the tendency to be fretful or
easygoing.
Dynamic traits These traits underlie our motivations and drive our behavior.
Surface traits Characteristics that are composed of source traits or behavioral elements.
These can be unstable and impermamnent and way weaken or strength
depending on the situation.
Source traits These are single, stable and permanent elements of behavior
Constitutional traits Source traits that have biological origins, such as behavior which arise from too
much alcohol consumption.
Environmental –mold Source traits that have environmental origins such as behaviors influenced by
traits our friends, work environment, or neighborhood.

LESSON 3.Five Areas of Personal Development

Human development is the way that people change and grow across their life span. There are many types of
development that people go through. As children learn problem-solving skills, their cognitive (or thinking)
development grows. When people age, they often develop wisdom, which means they are better able to
handle stress, a process that is part of emotional development

The Following section discusses how to develops one’s personality and to make it well balanced.
Five Areas of Personal Development
Area Development

Physiological Refers to physical changes in the body as well as the senses and changes in skills
development related to movement.

Emotional It has something to do with the feelings that you experience.

development

Social It is about our innate capacity to relate with others, to connect, and to feel the sense
development of belongingness

Cognitive Refers to a person’s intellectual abilities as shown in his/her thoughts, attitudes,

development beliefs and values.

Spiritual It is discovering oneself beyond the ego known as the soul, spirit, or the “inner
development essence” that is often disregarded or taken for granted. It is experiencing a glimpse
of the “inner guide” of one’s beliefs and values in discovering the meaning of life.

PHYSIOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT

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 Physical
health is defined as the condition of your body, taking into consideration everything from
the absence of disease to fitness level.

Physical health is critical for overall well-being and can be affected by: • Lifestyle: diet, level
of physical activity, and behavior (eating unhealthy foods);

• Human biology: a person’s genetics and physiology may make it easier or harder to achieve good
physical health;

• Environment: our surroundings and exposure to factors such as sunlight or toxic substances; and

• Healthcare service: good healthcare can help prevent illness, as well as to detect and treat illness.
It is important to take care of your body. Live healthy, eat healthy foods, get enough sleep, exercise
regularly, and avoid drugs and alcohol. Manage stress and go for regular medical check-ups.
Practice good hygiene.
?

EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Emotional health is an important part of overall health. Emotionally healthy people are in control of
their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. They can cope with life’s challenges. Emotions are
responses that generate biochemical reactions in our bodies, changing the physical state.
There are many ways to improve or maintain good emotional health.

• Be aware of your emotions and reactions. Notice what in your life makes you sad, frustrated, or

angry. Try to address or change those things. • Think before you act. Emotions can be powerful.
Give yourself time to think, and be calm before you say or do something you might regret.
• Manage stress. Try to change situations, causing you stress. Learn relaxation methods to cope
with stress.
• Strive for balance. Find a healthy balance between work and play and between activity and rest.
Make time for things you enjoy. Focus on positive things in your life.
• Take care of your physical health. Your physical health can affect your emotional health. Exercise
regularly, eat healthy meals and get enough sleep. Do not abuse drugs or alcohol.
• Connect with others. We are social creatures. We need positive connections with other people.

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

Social Development refers to how people develop social and emotional skills across the lifespan,
with particular attention to childhood and adolescence. Healthy social development allows us to
form positive relationships with family, friends, teachers, and other people in our lives.
As a person develop and perceive its individuality within a community, he/she also gains skills to
communicate with other people and process his/her actions. Social development most often refers
to how a person develops friendships and other relationships and how a person handles conflict with
peers.
Why is social development important?
Social development can impact many other forms of development a person experiences. Healthy
social development allows us to form positive relationships with family, friends, teachers, and other
people.
Healthy social development can help you:

• Develop Communication Skills. An ability to interact with others allows for more opportunities to
practice communications skills
• Build self-esteem. When a person is unable to make friends, it can be frustrating or even painful. A
good circle of friends reinforces a person’s comfort level with her individuality.
• Strengthen learning skills. Studies show that children who have a hard time getting along with
classmates as early as a preschool are more likely to experience later academic difficulties.

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 • Resolve
conflicts. Stronger self-esteem and better language skills can ultimately lead to a
better ability to resolve differences with peers. • Establish a positive attitude. A
positive attitude ultimately leads to better relationships with others and higher levels of
self-confidence.

COGNITIVE DEVELOPMENT
Cognitive development means how people think, explore, and figure things out. It is the
development of knowledge, skills, problem-solving, and dispositions, which helps a person to think
about and understand the world around them. Brain development is part of cognitive development.
This aspect of the self is enhanced when one attends school to study and learn or engages in other
mental endeavors.
Mental abilities are developed by engaging in intellectual pursuits such as studies, work, and
figuring out how best to deal with challenges—thinking, planning, organizing, evaluating, and
maximizing cognitive abilities. The more we study, the more we learn; while the more we learn, the
more we can study better.
SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT
Spiritual development is defined as discovering oneself beyond the ego known as the soul,
spirit, or the “inner essence” that is often disregarded or taken for granted (Llaneza-Ramos, 2017). It
is when one experiences a glimpse of the “inner guide” of one’s beliefs and values as one discovers
the meaning of life. It also allows people to connect with a Higher Power that is called by many
names like "God, Buddha, Allah.” “We are Christians, we are committed to the poor, we value
people, we are partners, and are responsive.” As we grow spiritually, our attitude toward life also
changes for the better in many ways. Most of our problems stem from our perceptions and
expectations of ourselves and of the world. One will realize that this solves half the problems of our
life. Spiritual growth and development help us to imbibe humility. Spirituality and inner peace is a
way of life. It helps us to develop great strength and courage. Spiritual growth and development
help to make human beings better citizens.

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 Activity 1.2:

Instruction: Create a diagram “About Myself “ using the Five Areas of Personality
Development. This will be your “Personal Reflection”. You can create your own style of diagram.
Write your name at the center of the diagram. Example :

Rubrics for Personal Reflection

CRITERIA DESCRIPTION POINT OBTAINED
S POINTS

Content The student was able to reflect his/her personal experiences and 10
social experiences using the five areas of personal development.

Creativity The diagram was created artistically using his/her own design. 6

Organization The ideas were well organized based on the concept of personal 4
development.

Total 20

Activity 1.3: Personal Development Advocacy (Critical thinking, Creativity, Communication,

Character)

Instruction: Create a video clip or a printed pamphlet for advocacy about the importance of
developing the whole of oneself focused on the five areas of personal development. (A pamphlet is
a small booklet containing information or arguments about a single subject. You may refer to it using
other words, like leaflet, brochure, flyer, handout or booklet. )
Post something on your social media account or give the pamphlets to some of your friends and
love one to inform them of the significance of this developmental goal of forming people with holistic
personalities and try to get as many likes and appreciation as possible!

You have the freedom to choose whether you make a video clip or a printed pamphlet. Create and
Enjoy!
Rubrics for Video Advocacy
CRITERIA DESCRIPTION POINTS OBTAINED
POINTS

Content The video advocacy contained the required information as 10

specified in the instruction.

Organization The work was well-organized and the message of the Video clip is 5
well understood.

Presentation The presentation was clear with the use of effective audio- 5
visual effects.

Total 20

Rubrics for printed pamphlet

CRITERIA DESCRIPTION POINTS OBTAINED
POINTS

Content The printed pamphlet contained the required information as 10

specified in the instruction.

Organization The work was well-organized and the message of the pamphlet is well 5
understood.

Presentation The pamphlets were given and appreciated by peers. 5

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 Total 20

Prepared by: Vincent Glen V.Jumao-as

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