Your Achiever Talent: Driven To Get It Done
“Genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration." - Thomas Edison
"Achiever" is a talent theme within the CliftonStrengths executing domain that I've come to really appreciate through observation, rather than personal experience. It doesn't manifest in me very intensely or frequently, yet it shines brightly as my husband's top talent. He finds immense satisfaction in completing tasks, distinguishing himself as one of the most joyfully hardworking people I've known. His dedication not only propels him forward but also motivates those around him to push themselves and achieve what once seemed beyond reach.
Someone with a high "Achiever" trait doesn't just work hard—many people do—they love to work hard. While others may be motivated to work hard for different reasons, those with a high "Achiever" find joy in the work itself. They possess a constant awareness of the tasks at hand, like a “to do” list glued to the back of their mind, tracking their progress and what’s left to do.
Is "Achiever" among your top talents? If so, you are an attainer, a doer, a pusher, and a pacesetter. When at your very best you push yourself and others towards milestones. You wield more energy and stamina than most, and as a result, you are constantly doing, constantly going, and constantly striving to complete the next task.
Understanding "Achiever" in Relation to Other Talents
Recognizing the "Achiever" talent involves comparing and contrasting it with other talent themes.
"Achiever" and "Activator" are characterized by energy; however, while "Activator", from the influencing talent domain, has the burst of energy needed to get started, "Achiever" has the stamina to cross the finish line.
"Achiever" and "Intellection" share intensity: "Achiever" has an intensity towards action and accomplishment, whereas "Intellection", from the strategic thinking domain, is an intense urge to think.
Lean Into Your "Achiever" Talent
Lead with "Achiever": You’re self-motivated. Model a great work ethic to boost your team's output, but avoid imposing your rhythm on others. Remain mindful that everyone's optimal production pace varies when it comes to achieving team goals. Be sure to celebrate collective milestones as a team to punctuate the achievement.
Work with "Achiever": You might be tempted to stop or slow down for those not keeping pace with you — don’t. Look for ways to continue forward at your own pace and look for partners who can match your stamina. Rely on the people who can keep pace or push you to work harder.
Live with "Achiever": Don’t spread yourself too thin. You’ll be asked to give a lot because you can get it done, but being busy isn’t the same thing as being productive nor doing well. Be sure that you are using your time and energy intentionally. Strive to be known for your hard work, but direct it towards meaningful goals and tasks.
Coach Someone with "Achiever": Someone with “Achiever” high will become motivated once tasks are presented in bullet point form. They delight in the clarity and the opportunity to focus their doing. They will also have more energy and stamina than others so they don’t need you to push them, just to help them clarify their goals and the next task to tackle.
Discover the Strength of Your "Achiever" Talent
See if "Achiever" is one of your dominant talents with CliftonStrengths 34 or CliftonStrengths top 5 and gain personalized insights and strategies tailored to illuminate your path and maximize your potential.
Discover your top talents with the CliftonStrengths assessment:
