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When you think of a powerful leader, who comes to mind? For me, leaders who immediately come to mind are Gandhi, Mother Theresa, and Theodore Roosevelt. They were very different people. Yet all were powerful leaders.

Too often we connect ‘power' with Hulk Hogan images - or power over others. But not all leaders have Hulk Hogan power. There are different kinds of leadership powers.

The dictionary defines power as 'the ability to take effective action.' Both Steve Jobs and Bill Gates are powerful leaders. Steve Jobs leverages his talents as an innovator. And Bill Gate capitalizes on his talents as a visionary. They make things happen in their own unique way.

As a leader you have your own special brand of leadership. The more you recognize these strengths - the easier it is to contribute and achieve results.

Ask yourself, "Which one of these talents is my best suit? Do you excel at Diamond talents - the ability to think outside the box and create new ideas? Are you exceptional at Heart Talents - the ability to build trust and motivate others? Are you an efficient Spade Talent who enjoys bringing order to chaotic? Or do thrive on being a Club talent who likes to launch new visions?

To find your stride as a leader identify your strengths and start leveraging these abilities. Here are three ideas to help you:

#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 your 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 your self up to mentor others as budget time draws near.

#2 Leverage your life experiences
Your life experiences are a tremendous source of power. Both ‘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. As a result, do you have warmth in your heart for a special cause? Are you aware of mistakes that others might tend to make? Are you alert to opportunities that others do not see? Your life experiences add depth and insight to your leadership. Use them!

#3. Find your passion
Your power as a leader doesn't come from fulfilling duty and obligations. It comes from knowing your passions, getting involved and making things happen. The corporate world is full of opportunities to contribute your talents. 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, where can I best use my time and talents?'

Powerful leaders make things happen. Spend just 10% more time recognizing your talents and bringing these abilities forward. Then watch your career and projects take off!

Topics

• Managing Talents and Career