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Greetings!

Welcome to BOLD LEADERS newsletter.

Lately I notice that I rarely close a closet door. It's a simple thing - leaving the door slightly ajar. But it speaks volumes about my talents. I'm a door opener -- not a door closer. I like to launch new ideas. Someone once asked Van Goth, "What's your favorite painting?" He replied - 'The next one!' I like that. I love to create and start new things. This shows up in everything I do.

This month I invite you to notice how your talents are showing up in the details of your life. Remember, your talents go everywhere you go - even on summer vacation!

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In This Issue

- Maximize Employee Talents
- The Secret of a Powerful Leader
- Upcoming Speaking Events

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The Secret of a Powerful Leader

Be Yourself!

Steve Jobs and Bill Gates are powerful leaders. Steve Jobs leverages his talents as an innovator. And Bill Gates capitalizes on his talents as a visionary. They make things happen in their own unique way.

The dictionary defines power as 'the ability to take effective action.' As a leader you have your own special brand of power. The more you recognize your unique strengths, the easier it is to contribute and achieve results.

Ask yourself, "Which one of my talents do I enjoy contributing the most?"

Do you excel at Diamond talents - the ability to think outside the box and create new ideas? Are you exceptional at Heart Talents - the talent of building trust and motivating others? Are you an efficient Spade Talent who enjoys bringing order and structure to chaos? Or do you thrive as a Club talent whose talent is launching a vision?

To find your stride as a leader, hone in on your strengths and leverage these abilities. Here are three ideas to help you do just that:

#1. Notice Your Quirks

What's unique about you? What quirky preferences and ways of being are essential to your nature? What makes you different from anyone else? What are your best talents? What do you absolutely love doing?

Take time to discover what makes you unique and harness these assets. Figure out how to turn these traits and preferences into a leadership advantage. If you're a natural storyteller, get in front of an audience and promote a worthy cause. If you're good with money, set yourself up to mentor others as budget time draws near.

#2. Leverage Your Life Experiences

Your life experiences are a tremendous source of power. Both the 'good and bad' experiences can enhance your leadership abilities. Have you ever been laid off? Had a bad boss? Struggled with a disability? Delivered a HUGE win for your company?

These experiences taught you something. Harness the gifts of these experiences and recognize how they add to your leadership abilities. As a result, do you have warmth in your heart for a special cause? Are you aware of mistakes that others tend to make? Are you alert to opportunities that some do not see? Your life experiences add depth and insight to your leadership talents. Use them!

#3. Tap Into Your Passions

Your power as a leader doesn't come from duty and obligations. It comes from knowing your passions, getting involved, and making things happen. The corporate world is ripe with opportunities to contribute. It's up to you to spot these opportunities and jump in feet first. Ask yourself, 'What matters to me? What are my priorities and interests? Where do I want to make a difference? Given my interest, how can I use my time and talents?'

Powerful leaders make things happen. Spend just 10% more time recognizing your talents and bringing these abilities to the forefront. Stop trying to be Oprah or Ted Turner. Trust that who you are and how you are wired is just right for the audience you're meant to serve. Leverage every delicious drop of your uniqueness - and watch your career take off!

Learn More About the 4 Talent Types

Upcoming Speaking Events