Do you struggle to recognize your talents?
Are you underutilized at work?
Do you prefer to just do what you know you are good at?
Do you feel overshadowed at times because others have done SO much…making you feel less?
If you answered yes to any of the questions, you are not alone. We all get stuck from time to time. There is so much noise in the world (chaos if you ask me), that we get lost or feel less than.
A few years ago hardly anyone was online broadcasting Facebook Live videos. I remember a client saying she could never do a video. She lacked courage and would be too nervous. She certainly was not the only one who felt that way. In fact, the majority of people felt just like her. Then a door was slammed. People were forced to pivot, do business online, change their strategy, and get out of their comfort zones.
How is this recognizing your talents? This same client has come out of her shell. She is broadcasting videos often and loving it. She has realized it’s not hard. She believes she is strong. Her clients love her. She is naturally gifted in communication and motivation… a talent she never realized or forgotten she had. I am so proud of her!
We don’t need doors to slam and be forced out of our comfort zone before we realize we are good at something. Ideas …
- Take the Myers Brigg Personality Assessment. I did this years ago when training for an executive position. I tested 10 years later and scored the same way. This is a great way to identify your personality strengths.
- Do what makes you feel good and find ways to do more of those type of activities. If you are great at running, maybe lead a local group walk/run so others can lean on your expertise.
- Ask your friends. Good friends will be honest. They will build you up without lying. When they say you are smart or great on the phone, don’t dismiss them. They DO see your talent. Believe them!
- Find a mentor. Mentors are a great way to build your confidence.
- Surround yourself with positive people. Perhaps you know someone who is a rockstar when it comes to financials. Spend time with them. You may just hear that what they say is something you already know. That’s an affirmation that you are just as smart.
Speaking of affirmations … Perhaps try finding ways to affirm yourself. Use these examples below or create your own.
Choose to say …
- I sometimes find myself feeling unsure if I try to live up to the expectations of others. But then, I remind myself that I am unique. There is no one else exactly like me who shares the same talents.
- I refrain from comparing myself to others. I possess my own specia
l list of character traits, skills, and talents. - My repertoire of skills spans from my home life, to my work life, to activities I do in my spare time. I recognize my abilities and use them each day.
- At home, I treat my partner in ways that show how much I care. I am confident that I can bring out the best in my kids. Performing tasks around the house help me identify other talents I possess.
- At work, I am confident that I can fulfill whatever duties need to be completed. Many of the jobs I perform show my talents to others. I am proud of my efforts.
- Today, I am making a list of my skills. I possess talents in all areas of my life, including my family relationships, work behaviors, and social life. My confidence is high because I recognize the things I am good at.
Self-Reflection Questions:
- How can I be fully aware of my talents?
- What are my top five talents?
- How do I feel when others notice or comment on my talents?
Peace and Blessings,
Dawn