“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” Aristotle
Excellence… such a great word! We long to be excellent (to surpass, excel, be outstanding) in certain areas of our lives. Excellence feels good!
A Math Tale
As a high schooler I tried hard in my geometry class, I really did. But after much frustration (and a few tears) at the end of the semester my geometry grade was at the “barely squeaked by almost had to take the class again” level. I struggled with the spatial ability to see in 3-dimensions. (I still avoid parallel parking unless I absolutely have to…) Now algebra, that was my gig! Patterns, numbers and applying formulas came easy to me. (Give me a crossword puzzle, murder mystery or even a new software program to figure out and I'm all in!)
Strengths and Weaknesses
Think back a few years, or even last week… what is something that you did that came very naturally or easy to you? That is most likely one of your strength areas.
Now think about something that you have to work hard at or feels like a bit of a struggle. That is most likely one of your weaker areas.
So how do you create and produce more excellence in your life?
USE YOUR STRENGTHS!
Discovering Your Strengths
Your strengths are composed of your unique character traits, skills and knowledge. Put simply, your strengths are made up of who you are, what you can do and what you know. You most likely can name several strengths that you possess already.
If you want to discover more about your strengths, here are a few suggestions:
-Take the VIA Survey of Character Strengths This a free on-line assessment that will show you your highest strength areas of 24 character traits.
-Take the Strengthsfinder Assessment on-line. (You will need to purchase an access code on the website). Or you can also purchase the StrengthsFinder 2.0 book by Tom Rath which includes an assess code. (I found it handy to have the book to refer to after I took the assessment.)
-Ask a few people that know you well, "What do you see as my strengths?"
-Make a list (each) of 5-10 character traits, skills and knowledge that you possess and consider as your strengths.
Excellence…it is something we all desire. Knowing your strengths and using them repeatedly can get you there!
Are you interested in achieving more in your career or leadership? Contact Carol for a complimentary phone call to discuss your coaching needs.
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