Knowing what our strengths are can help us figure out what we are best at. Strength finder and personality tests can point us in the right direction. The only problem is this is full of our own biases, so we can’t put too many stakes in them. There is a tendency to apply a label, which mindlessly gives you tunnel vision. This is a cognitive commitment narrative that helps reinforce the same story.
Remember, strength finders are what you think – You may have other strengths that you are unaware. Trying different things can help you figure out what your strengths are. You can have strengths that you didn’t realize. For example, my friends and family started bringing up an advantage in my blindspot. I never even thought about resource management.
Strengths can change – As we continue to grow, we will figure out different strengths. New strengths will come. When we take the test, it reflects us more on the current day versus our past self.
We can overcome our weakness – I am all about maximizing your strength. This doesn’t mean we can’t overcome our shortcomings. Just because we aren’t natural at an area doesn’t mean with practice and different teaching methods we can’t learn it. We can 80/20 it. We shouldn’t just ignore the field or not try because “it’s not us.” This is a fixed mindset.
Our greatest strengths are usually are greatest weaknesses – It is not good or bad. There is always the other side of the coin. For example, one strength of mine is my agreeableness. I am good at getting along with others and making new connections. The problem is I don’t like confrontation, and it doesn’t come naturally—two sides of the coin. I can still confront people and say but just have to make an extra effort.
Learn your strength but don’t overly identify with them – We should be self-aware to find our strengths. We should not let it define our life. “I am good at this, but don’t enjoy it” then maybe its time for a change. Labels are what put on blinders.
Always remember, personality tests are who we are at the time we take them. They can change as we change. If you apply to many labels to yourself, you can be working for the label versus yourself. Strength finders and personality tests are a useful tool, as long as you don’t allow them to create a fixed mindset.
(Jordan Harbinger show 365 had an interesting podcast on this)