Johari Window
Developed by psychologists Joseph Luft and Harry Ingham in 1955, the Johari Window is a model for exploring self-awareness and interpersonal communication. A 2x2 grid maps what is known/unknown to self and to others: Open (known to both), Blind Spot (known to others, not self), Hidden (known to self, not others), Unknown (known to neither). Used in facilitated workshops, it prompts honest feedback and self-reflection.
How to run it
- 1
Give each participant a list of 55 adjectives (e.g. able, accepting, adaptable, bold, caring, dependable, energetic, intelligent, patient, trustworthy).
- 2
Each participant selects 5–6 adjectives that they feel describe themselves and places them in the 'Open' quadrant.
- 3
Peers also select adjectives they feel describe the person and share them.
- 4
Adjectives selected by both self and peers go in 'Open'. Peer-only → 'Blind Spot'. Self-only → 'Hidden'. Neither → 'Unknown'.
- 5
Debrief individually or in pairs: What do you notice about your Blind Spots?
- 6
Facilitated group discussion: what does this tell us about our team's communication?
Tips
This exercise requires high psychological safety — introduce it only with established teams or in development programmes with a skilled facilitator.
Never force someone to share their Hidden or Unknown quadrant.
The Blind Spot quadrant is where the growth is.
Variations
Run a simplified version using only 3 questions for each quadrant rather than the full adjective process. Use in leadership development programmes as a 360-feedback precursor.
Where it fits
Frequently asked questions
When should I use Johari Window?â–¾
Use Johari Window when you want to: Leadership development; Team trust building; Coaching programmes; Interpersonal communication workshops.
How long does Johari Window take?â–¾
Johari Window typically takes 45–90 minutes.
How many participants does Johari Window work for?â–¾
Johari Window works best for groups of 2–20 participants.
What materials do I need for Johari Window?â–¾
To run Johari Window you will need: Johari Window template, list of adjectives (printed), pens.
How difficult is Johari Window to facilitate?â–¾
Johari Window is rated intermediate — some facilitation experience is helpful.
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