Like everyone else, you have natural talents that determine the areas in which you can deliver top performance. If you do not pay attention to these talents, they are not yet fully developed. According to the CliftonStrenghts philosophy, they are ‘raw’ instead of ‘mature’. An undeveloped talent is often unproductive and mainly focused inwards. While a developed talent is productive and is mainly focused outwards or on others. Making the most of your talents, therefore, means that not only do you excel in what you do, but you also help your environment or others with this.
3 tips to get your talents in shape:
- Translate your talents into behavior
A talent can be abstract and not immediately visible. It may not be easy to recognize and develop your own talents. Therefore, start by identifying behavior that matches your talents and come up with concrete ways to display this behavior more often (at work). - Gain knowledge and skills
These two ingredients are key to the development of your talents. Map out what you need to use your talents. For example, if your talent is the eagerness to learn, processing as much new information as possible will help you. So sign up for a ‘speed reading’ course! - Share your talents
Sharing with others allows you to see your talents from a different perspective. You may not recognize an aspect of your talent that is obvious to someone else. Take advantage of this fresh perspective and ask for tips and advice to develop your talents. Share your talents by using them to help others. You will become even better at doing what you are good at while the other benefits from your talents; a win-win.