The Power of Tapping Into Your Strengths

Some people seem to have a clear understanding of their special gifts and strengths.  It might be a great sense of humour and the ability to make other people laugh.  Maybe it's the ability to remain calm in the midst of chaos.  Perhaps it's a natural talent for leading and inspiring others.
 
On the other hand, many people find it difficult to acknowledge their own strengths.  Focusing on their positive qualities can make them feel awkward and uncomfortable, perhaps even self-centred.  This is unfortunate, as there's enormous power in identifying and tapping into one's strengths.

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Tapping into your strengths builds confidence.

Learning, growing, and stretching yourself can be incredibly rewarding.  However, the vast majority of us don't like feeling as if we've been thrown into the deep end of the pool with no warning or preparation, floundering as we try to stay afloat. 
 
When you make use of your strengths, you feel more secure and at home.  You know what you're doing and how to do it.  You're able to think things through competently and exercise sound judgement.  As a result, you feel a lot more confident as you navigate the situation you're in.
 

Tapping into your strengths leads to greater success.

The most successful people in life don't focus on their weaknesses.  Instead, they identify their strengths and leverage those strengths for maximum success.  If there's an area they know they aren't strong in, they don't waste time and energy trying to turn it around; they would much rather apply that time and energy in areas where they're likely to see the greatest return. 
 
A good example of this is in business partnerships.  One partner might be highly creative and great at abstract thinking, while the other individual is more at home managing concrete, practical affairs.  Each party brings a different skill set to the table, and that's where they focus on making their primary contribution. 
 
 
Tapping into your strengths helps you to overcome obstacles.

In every area of your life, from work situations to personal relationships, the ability to identify and tap into your strengths can help you to overcome challenges and obstacles.  By drawing on your strengths, you're able to bring your very best to every situation.  You're more clear-minded with the ability to engage in a more genuine and sincere way.  This won't necessarily make the situation you're facing easier, but it does leave you better equipped to assess the best course of action in order to move forward. 

How in touch are you with your own strengths?  Consider the qualities and traits that have served you well in the past, and consider how you can draw on these strengths to support you in different areas of your life.