Graphology as a tool for self-reflection

Graphology, or handwriting analysis, is usually seen as a way of reading someone else’s personality. Its accuracy depends heavily on the analyst’s skill, knowledge and understanding of people. Handwriting also changes with mood, and a small sample can mislead. This narrow view is partly why graphology is sometimes dismissed as a pseudo-science.

I find its greatest value lies elsewhere: in self-reflection. Self-reflection is at the heart of almost every kind of therapy, and lasting change in personality rarely happens without it.

Our ego is necessary, but it is also one of the biggest barriers to looking honestly at ourselves. In a busy life, few people have the time or the inclination to look into the mirror of their inner self. Traits formed decades ago stay fixed, and growth becomes rare unless a painful experience forces us to stop and look.

Used for self-reflection, handwriting analysis is a remarkably direct mirror. It puts something of the subconscious on paper, so you can see yourself the way you see others. Other people’s problems often look simple to solve, until the same problem is ours.

Graphologists analysing their own handwriting need care, because writing self-consciously can give a misleading picture. Only the writer knows how deliberate their handwriting was.

I believe graphology could be especially valuable for young people. At an age when personality is in turmoil, and defiance and resistance run high, it can be a gentle way to guide and nurture growth, and a strong support for parents.

Awareness is power. Simply knowing that an unhelpful trait exists is a step towards change. When someone else points out a flaw, the ego steps in; when we notice it ourselves, we are far more likely to change. A person who realises for themselves that they are feeling low is more likely to seek help than one who is simply told so.

Even a small scribble says something. With a graphologist’s help, a person can look at themselves and make changes through graphotherapy, one small adjustment at a time, slowly and steadily, while keeping what is unique about their personality.

This article was first published on Practo Health Feed. Read the original on Practo