Time: < 30 Minutes
STEP 1: Think about when you’ve been happiest with an accomplishment or have been told how great you are. What skill was it that allowed you to perform so well? We all have talents that we should leverage more often, rather than worrying about what we’re not good at…mostly due to fear. Are you honest with yourself? Do you know and acknowledge what you are good at, or do you downplay it? Sometimes people get confidence and cockiness confused. Make a list of the skills, traits, talents, and behaviors that you excel at, and then look for a pattern. Are you good at leading? Are you detail oriented? Are you better behind a computer or in front of a crowd? What hobbies do you enjoy? What are you doing when you get a lot of compliments? If you really struggle with what you do well, ask those closest to you, or take a behavioral assessment such as DiSC, Meyers-Briggs or True Colors.
STEP 2: Once you get clear in your mind where your strengths lie, share with others what you have experience in, what you enjoy, and how you’d like to make a contribution in that way. A good way to start the conversation is by asking others, “What are your talents?” “What do you do best where you can make the most contribution?” Once they answer, it makes it easier for you to share your areas of expertise.
STEP 3: Always be looking for opportunities to leverage your talents, whether you are at work or at play. This is not only your opportunity to shine, but also an opportunity to both grow and mentor others, letting them learn from you. What a great way to pay it forward.
