Your Deliberative Talent: Cautiously Minimizing Risk
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” – Benjamin Franklin
“Deliberative” is my 10th talent, and it has an interesting dynamic with my first talent, “Activator”. They operate almost like a gas pedal and a brake. I’m eager to shift from thinking and planning to action, but that eagerness lessens when the risk is high. To work with this, I start with very low-risk action steps, assess the outcomes, and then move forward. This often looks like taking a few small steps, refining them, learning quick lessons, and applying those insights to reduce risks and mistakes in the next steps. This combination makes me highly effective at navigating risk and making decisions at the right time. I can balance action with deliberation, ensuring progress while minimizing setbacks.
Tucked into the Executing Domain, the “Deliberative” talent theme describes people who get things done by cautiously thinking through their actions and minimizing possible mistakes and risks - either as they go or before they even start. What’s great about them is that while they may not move fast, they make sure the job is done meticulously and correctly, so it doesn’t need to be redone. That’s their magic!
If “Deliberative” is one of your top talents, you are probably a very careful, vigilant, and private person. You probably know the world is an unpredictable place, and rather than denying risks, you want each one identified, assessed, and ultimately reduced. You like to plan ahead to anticipate what might go wrong. You select your friends cautiously and keep your own counsel when the conversation turns to personal matters. People likely rely on you for your ability to see what others can’t - or won’t - and for your consistent, thoughtful approach to navigating complex topics or situations.
Similarities and Differences
“Deliberative” vs. “Strategic”: Both talents are forward-thinking. Deliberative anticipates risks and evaluates their impact, while Strategic (from the Strategic Thinking Domain) scans for multiple options and chooses the best path forward.
“Deliberative” vs. “Relator”: Both talents are socially selective. Deliberative is selective due to a cautious nature, while Relator (from the Relationship Building Domain) opts for deep, genuine connections.
Leverage the “Deliberative” Talent
Lead with “Deliberative”: Use your natural ability to anticipate risks to create solid plans and prepare your team for potential challenges. Your reserved nature might make you seem distant at first, but your team will come to trust your reliability and thoroughness. Show that careful consideration leads to strong, enduring outcomes. While you excel at identifying pitfalls, ensure your leadership doesn’t stall progress. Pair your careful decision-making with by-when dates and team members who thrive on speed and action to complement your thoughtfulness.
Work with “Deliberative”: You bring a critical eye that others rely on to see risks they might miss. Step into that role with confidence and make sure your insights are heard in planning or decision-making. You do your best work when you have time to think things through - don’t be afraid to advocate for that! Your thoroughness adds immense value. Since you prefer privacy, let coworkers know it’s not about shutting them out but about staying focused and intentional.
Live with “Deliberative”: Your careful approach to life isn’t a limitation - it’s a gift! You see potential pitfalls and prepare for them, which means you often avoid unnecessary mistakes. Own that! Create situations where you can let go a little without feeling like you’re risking too much. A trusted friend or partner can help you with "safe spontaneity".
Coach someone with “Deliberative”: Help them see that moving slowly is a superpower. Remind them that their caution ensures solid decisions and long-term success. When slow has turned into stagnant, help them think through the risks of not moving forward, so they can use their talent to create a fuller risk assessment. Expect them to be private: if they’re reserved about personal matters, don’t push. Instead, build trust gradually and focus on helping them channel their cautious nature into meaningful progress.
Discover the Strength of Your Deliberative Talent
Find out if “Deliberative” is one of your dominant talents with the CliftonStrengths Full 34 Report or CliftonStrengths Top 5 Report, gaining personalized insights and strategies to maximize your potential.
Discover your top talents with the CliftonStrengths assessment:
