What are your strengths?
It seems like an innocuous question, but it can often stump people. Perhaps it's because it can feel a bit braggy to talk about what we're good at, or maybe it's just human nature to focus on where we could improve. In any case, knowing our strengths can help in a wide range of contexts, both at work and at home.
In fact, research shows that when we use our strengths we're happier, more engaged and more likely to achieve our goals.
It's also important to clarify what we mean by the word strengths. Often people understand strengths to be 'things that we're good at'. But I prefer Alex Linley and Cappfinity's definition which I usually summarise as 'things that we're good at, AND that give us energy'. This distinction is really important. There have definitely been times in my career when I've been doing things that I've been good at, but that didn't give me energy - and ultimately that was really draining.
The combination of competence and energy is really key if we're to get the transformational benefits of strengths.
Take a moment to think about some of the things you're good at, that also give you energy... How might you use these strengths more at work? What would that look like in practice? And at home?
If you're not sure what your strengths are, consider doing an online assessment. I usually recommend Strengths Profile (which aligns with the definition above), and I'm currently working to become an accredited practitioner
And, if you're interested in finding out more about your strengths, whether informally or as part of strengths-based coaching, get in touch - it would be great to chat through the options with you.