Most people think that the bulk of your self-improvement efforts should be devoted to overcoming weaknesses.
The truth is, it’s much more productive to further develop your strengths.
In his book, The Big Leap, author Gay Hendricks talks about how successful people typically operate in their “zone of excellence”, using skills and competencies that have been honed over time.
But the highest achievers, says Hendricks, function in their so-called “zone of genius”, where the alignment is greatest between their natural gifts and their chosen profession.
To help identify your zone of genius, the author suggests that you consider the following questions:
- What work do you do that doesn’t seem like work?
- In your work, what produces the highest ratio of abundance and satisfaction to the amount of time spent
- What is your unique ability?
Once you build awareness by answering these questions, actively seek opportunities to practice and enhance your skills in this area.
By leveraging your strengths, especially your innate abilities, you’re much more likely to feel productive, energized and fulfilled, leading to greater satisfaction at work and in life.
