Are You Sabotaging Your Own Development?

There’s a concept that’s changing the game in personal and professional growth: Strengths-Based Development.

It's a refreshing departure from the usual self-improvement grind that often involves fixing our weaknesses. But before you get too excited and think you can sweep your weaknesses under the rug, let's have a straightforward chat about what this strengths-based approach is all about.

Strengths vs. Conventional Approach

Imagine this: On one hand, there's the conventional approach to personal growth, which focuses on identifying what's wrong and attempting to make you a more well-rounded individual. On the other hand, we have strengths-based development, a bit of a rebel in the self-improvement world. It's all about discovering what you're naturally good at, what excites you, and then using those strengths to your advantage.

Here's the deal: The conventional approach shines a bright spotlight on your weaknesses and works hard to fix them. Strengths-based development, however, takes a different route. It zeros in on your strengths, allowing you to acknowledge the areas where you're already thriving and build on them. Instead of dwelling on your shortcomings, it encourages you to celebrate your strengths.

Discovering Your Strengths

You might be wondering, “How do I determine my strengths?”

the Clifton Strengths Assessment is a widely used resource for this purpose. It acts as a treasure map, uncovering your inherent skills and inclinations. This assessment is based on comprehensive research by Dr. Donald Clifton and Gallup, which included the study of more than 10,000 leaders known for their outstanding leadership qualities. To discover your strengths, you can click >> HERE to purchase codes for the CliftonStrengths Assessment.

Managing Weaknesses in a Strengths-Based Way

In the world of strengths-based development, weaknesses aren’t a sign that you're fundamentally flawed. Not at all. Instead, it simply means there are areas where you might not be as naturally talented or skilled, and that can create challenges for you or others.

But it's crucial to distinguish between areas where you don't need to be exceptional and genuine weaknesses that require attention.

For instance, if you're a car mechanic who lacks “people” skills but doesn't interact with customers much, that's not a weakness; it's just not part of your job. However, if you're a nurse who struggles with “people” skills, that's a weakness because patient interaction is a major part of your job and it affects your performance.

Key Questions to Assess Weakness

To determine if something is a real weakness, ask yourself two important questions:

1. Does my role require me to do things that don't come naturally and it drains me?

2. Does my lack of knowledge, skill, or talent ever hinder my success?

If you find yourself nodding "yes" to either of these questions, it's time to address it. That's a genuine weakness that deserves some attention and care.

Strategies for Managing Weaknesses

So, how do you deal with weaknesses within the strengths-based framework? Here are some practical strategies:

1. Acknowledge them: First and foremost, recognize the areas in your life that require you to do things that don’t come naturally and drain you. Remember, nobody excels at everything, and acknowledging your weaknesses is the first step in managing them.

2. Minimize their impact: If possible, avoid situations that expose your weaknesses. Create support systems, develop processes, or seek assistance to make things smoother.

3. Collaborate: Look for people around you who excel where you struggle and team up.

4. Leverage your strengths: Shine the spotlight on your strengths to compensate for your weaknesses. Explore using one of your strengths to accomplish the same end instead.

5. Just do it: Sometimes, there’s no getting around it and you have to just do the thing. When that’s the case, focus on the the outcome, not the process.

By embracing these strategies, you can effectively manage your weaknesses while letting your strengths take the lead. This leads to significant personal and professional growth.

If you’re invested in development, the strengths-based approach is key! It's not about obsessing over your weaknesses; it's about unlocking your potential by harnessing your unique strengths. So, as you continue to explore your strengths and manage your weaknesses, remember, you're on the path to becoming your best self, one strength at a time.

And before you go, Click >> HERE to purchase a code to take the CliftonStrengths Assessment to kickstart your journey!