The 95 Universal Core Competencies: A Human Blueprint by Self Exploration Academy

A Human Development Framework That Starts with Self

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Introduction: What Makes Us Competent?

We’re often taught that competence means having the right degree, job title, or test score. But at Self Exploration Academy (SEA), competence is something much deeper—and far more universal.

The 95 Universal Core Competencies developed by SEA form a blueprint for what it means to be a capable, self-aware, and purpose-driven human being. Whether you’re a student, leader, artist, teacher, or entrepreneur, these competencies help guide you in building a meaningful and integrated life.

These skills aren’t based on privilege, status, or personality. They’re available to everyone, and they grow stronger with practice.

The 9 Domains of Human Competence

To make them easier to understand and apply, SEA organizes these 95 competencies into 9 interconnected domains. These domains reflect different aspects of who we are, what we do, and how we show up in the world:

1. Self-Awareness + Identity

2. Self-Regulation + Emotional Intelligence

3. Communication + Relational Skills

4. Decision-Making + Thought Process

5. Drive + Discipline

6. Leadership + Responsibility

7. Collaboration + Empathy

8. Values + Integrity

9. Planning + Execution

Let’s break it down.

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1. Self-Awareness + Identity

The foundation of personal growth starts with knowing yourself.

Core Competencies:

• Awareness of Self

• Self-Assessment

• Self-Confidence

• Self-Esteem

• Self-Direction

• Self-Expression

• Self-Improvement

• Identity Awareness

• Presence

• Self-Control

• Internal / Personal Commitment

2. Self-Regulation + Emotional Intelligence

Managing your emotions, stress, and mindset to respond wisely, not just react.

Core Competencies:

• Directing Emotions

• Emotional Sensitivity

• Stress Management

• Surrenderance of Control

• Sense of Timing

• Humility

• Rejection Management

• Positive Attitude

• Balanced Decision Making

• Accurate Listening

• Objective Listening

3. Communication + Relational Skills

Expressing clearly, listening actively, and building mutual understanding.

Core Competencies:

• Communication

• Accurate Listening

• Observation of Others

• Social Awareness

• Social Drive

• Awareness of Others

• Awareness of Motivational Needs

• Interpersonal Relationships

• Personal Relationships

• Empathy

• Evaluating Others

• Persuading Others

4. Decision-Making + Thought Process

Critical thinking, theoretical reasoning, and practical judgment in real-world situations.

Core Competencies:

• Practical Thinking

• Conceptual Thinking

• Theoretical Drive

• Theoretical Problem Solving

• Intuitive Decision Making

• Problem / Situation Analysis

• Problem Solving Ability

• Problem Management

• Use of Common Sense

• Concrete Thinking

• Comprehension

• Foresight

• Versatility

• Data Analysis

5. Drive + Discipline

Being proactive, focused, and consistent—even in the face of setbacks

Core Competencies:

• Initiative

• Persistence

• Self-Discipline and Sense of Duty

• Goal Oriented Mindset

• Personal Drive

• Proactive Thinking

• Accountability for Self

• Commitment

• Competitiveness

• Realistic Personal Goal-Setting

• Surrenderance of Control

• Specificity

6. Leadership + Responsibility

Guiding others, taking ownership, and showing up as a model of integrity.

Core Competencies:

• Leadership of Others

• Developing Others

• Accountability for Others

• Role Awareness

• Role Confidence

• Conveying Role Value

• Integrity

• Literacy

• Admonishing Others

• Political Drive

• Truthfulness

• Project Scheduling

7. Collaboration + Empathy

Working with others to build trust, share responsibilities, and honor group needs.

Core Competencies:

• Collaboration

• Belongingness

• Commitment to the Task at Hand

• Respect for Property

• Respect for Policies

• Team Awareness

• Empathy

• Awareness of Motivational Needs

• Evaluating Others

• Flexibility

• Developing Others

8. Values + Integrity

Acting in alignment with ethics, traditions, and long-term commitments.

Core Competencies:

• Integrity

• Impartiality

• Traditional / Regulatory Drive

• Satisfaction of Standards

• Role Awareness

• Realistic Expectations

• Ethical Awareness

• Respect for Policies

• Truthfulness

• Consistency and Reliability

9. Planning + Execution

Making things happen through intentional thought, resource use, and practical execution.

Core Competencies:

• Organization

• Long-Term Planning

• Balanced Decision Making

• Selection

• Time Management

• Urgency

• Results-Oriented Mindset

• Customer-Oriented Mindset

• Utilitarian / Economic Drive

• Quality-Oriented Mindset

• Creativity

• Aesthetic Awareness

• Resourcefulness

• Goal-Setting for Others

• Realistic Goal-Setting for Others

Final Thoughts: A Toolkit for Life

The 95 Universal Core Competencies aren’t just educational goals—they’re life tools. Tools for leading. Tools for learning. Tools for loving, building, changing, and thriving.

At Self Exploration Academy, we offer these competencies not just to be memorized, but to be practiced—through relationships, responsibilities, reflection, and real-world challenges.

You already have the capacity to grow. These competencies help you grow with purpose.

Explore more:

🧠 myselfexploration.org

📚 Free resources and glossary entries (available soon)

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📊 Competency-based lesson plans + SEL integrations (available soon)