The image below comes from Wikipedia’s article about SWOT analysis. The article starts like this:
SWOT Analysis is a strategic planning method used to evaluate the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats involved in a project or in a business venture.
I have used SWOT for business purposes but it turns out that SWOT can be used on a personal level too. Mary Jaksch at Goodlife Zen has a very interesting post about how to Optimize Your Life with the SWOT Matrix. The second part was posted on December 3rd, 10 Questions That Will Change Your Life: SWOT Analysis Part #2.
Do not get too hang up on your weaknesses. When it comes to weaknesses we shall think wider than about what we can improve. Do we need to improve in that area or can we team with someone else that balances our weakness?
Keep in mind that what shows up as weakness in one situation can be a strength in another situation, and vice versa.
When searching for more information about SWOT I came across this one, Using a SWOT Analysis in Your Career Planning. There is an example that helps you get started on your own career assessment.
Update November 30, 2009.
There is a new post on Good Life Zen, How to Reboot Your Life With the SWOT Matrix
Read more:
SWOT analysis method and examples, with free SWOT template
SWOT Analysis Discover New Opportunities. Manage and Eliminate Threats.
A Business Owner’s Secret Weapon: Swot Analysis
SWOT Analysis Mistakes to Avoid
An essential guide to swot analysis
This was originally posted at Forty Plus Two, another blog of mine.
While I’m not a huge fan of these “systems,” the SWOT analysis really is helpful. It just makes things a little more clear for people.
Another thing I thought was helpful, was Jack Welch’s way of analyzing business. Instead of classifying your business so you have majority of the market share, you classify it so you have 20% of the market share. This helps find new growth opportunities.
Good example, but I want to do a SWOT analysis of what I get from these type of techniques.
It’s better to try them out. SWOT is very useful both for your business and yourself.
Thanks for sharing. Very helpful