Play to Your Strengths

                         Secret to succeed — Be Yourself! 

The dictionary defines power as 'the abilityto take effective action.' As a leader you have your own special brandof power. The more you recognize your uniquestrengths, the easier it is to contributeand achieve results.

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

Do you excel at Diamond talents - the abilityto think outside the box and create newideas? Are you exceptional at Heart Talents -the talent of building trust and motivatingothers? Are you an efficient Spade Talent whoenjoys bringing order and structure to chaos? Or do you thrive as a Club talent whose talent islaunching a vision?

To find your stride as a leader, hone in on yourstrengths and leverage theseabilities. Here are three ideas to helpyou do just that:

#1. Notice Your Quirks

What's unique about you? What quirkypreferences and ways of being are essentialto your nature? What makes you different fromanyone else? What are your best talents? Whatdo you absolutely love doing?

Take time to discover what makesyou unique and harness these assets. Figureout how to turn these traits and preferencesinto a leadership advantage. If you're anatural storyteller, get in front of anaudience and promote a worthy cause. Ifyou're good with money, set yourself up tomentor others as budget time draws near.

#2. Leverage Your Life Experiences

Your life experiences are a tremendous sourceof power. Both the 'good and bad' experiences canenhance your leadership abilities. Have youever been laid off? Had a bad boss? Struggledwith a disability? Delivered a HUGE win foryour company?

These experiencestaught you something. Harness the gifts ofthese experiences and recognize how they addto your leadership abilities. As a result, do you havewarmth in your heart for a special cause? Areyou aware of mistakes that others tendto make? Are you alert to opportunities thatsome do not see? Your life experiences adddepth and insight to your leadership talents. Usethem!

#3. Tap Into Your Passions

Your power as a leader doesn't come from dutyand obligations. It comes from knowing yourpassions, getting involved, and making thingshappen. The corporate world is ripe with opportunities to contribute.It's up to you to spot these opportunitiesand jump in feet first. Ask yourself, 'Whatmatters to me? What are my priorities andinterests? Where do I want to make adifference? Given my interest, how can Iuse my time and talents?'

Powerful leaders make things happen. Spendjust 10% more time recognizing your talentsand bringing these abilities to theforefront. 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

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