Over 34 million people worldwide have taken Gallup's CliftonStrengths assessment, a testament to the increasing recognition that true success stems from harnessing our natural talents. As Marcus Buckingham once said:
Strengths are not what we do well, but what we do effortlessly.
This growing global movement reflects a powerful shift toward understanding that, by focusing on what we do best, we unlock untapped potential both personally and professionally.
But what exactly are strengths, and why should we devote our energy to developing them?
What Are Strengths? The Difference Between Talents and Strengths
Gallup defines talents as natural patterns of thought, feeling, or behaviour that can be productively applied. Strengths emerge when we intentionally invest in these talents by building knowledge, honing skills, and repeatedly practicing their use.
For example, someone with an Empathy talent can develop it into a strength such as helping people find the right phrases to express their feelings - to themselves as well as to others. Strengths are talents amplified by effort and focus.
Does Focusing on Strengths Mean Ignoring Weaknesses?
A common misconception about strengths-based development is that it dismisses the importance of addressing weaknesses. However, investing in strengths doesn’t mean ignoring areas for improvement. Instead, it’s about focusing energy on what you do best and achieving consistent, sustainable excellence. All while managing or mitigating weaknesses effectively.
Research from Gallup shows that people who focus on their strengths:
Report feeling more confident and energized
Are 6x more likely to be engaged in their work
Experience higher productivity and well-being
Focusing on weaknesses, by contrast, can lead to frustration, lower performance, and burnout. It’s not about avoiding growth, it’s about maximizing potential where it counts.
Why Is It Smart to Invest in Strengths?
Enhanced Well-Being and Resilience: Studies in positive psychology show that using strengths regularly is associated with increased happiness, resilience, and satisfaction. When we operate in our areas of strength, we enter a state of “flow,” where work feels effortless and fulfilling
Improved Performance: Gallup research reveals that strengths-focused teams achieve 12.5% higher productivity and retain employees more effectively. Leaders who help their team members use their strengths can build trust and foster collaboration
Stronger Relationships: Focusing on strengths encourages collaboration rather than competition. It helps people appreciate their differences and recognize how diverse talents contribute to shared goals
Personal Growth Through Strengths: Strengths-based development isn’t about ignoring self-improvement, it’s about grounding growth in areas where you learn quickly and naturally excel. By doing so, you build confidence and momentum, which can then empower you to tackle challenges in weaker areas
The Misconception of Self-Grandiosity
Focusing on strengths doesn’t mean being arrogant or self-centred. Instead, it’s about acknowledging what you do well and using those abilities to make meaningful contributions. It’s about self-awareness, not self-absorption.
Dr. Martin Seligman, the father of positive psychology, emphasizes that strengths-based approaches foster authentic self-expression, which leads to a greater sense of purpose.
"This authenticity strengthens leadership, relationships, and overall life satisfaction."
How to Start Your Strengths Journey
Discover Your Talents: take Gallup’s CliftonStrengths assessment (ask me for an access code with a discount!)
Invest in Growth: strengths are developed through intentional practice and learning. As your coach I can parter with you to hone these abilities
Apply Your Strengths in Daily Life: Start incorporating your strengths into both your work and personal life. Whether you're navigating negotiations, having challenging conversations, resolving conflicts, leading change, or dealing with burnout, tapping into your unique strengths can make a significant difference.
Avoid trying to mimic someone else, be it a guru or a role model, as this approach rarely works. Success comes from being authentically you
Don’t Ignore Weaknesses: acknowledge areas of improvement, but focus on strategies to mitigate their impact rather than obsessively fixing them
Hi, I’m Monika, Strengths Coach, facilitator, social-profit organization leader, and photographer. I’m here to help you own your vision for meaningful growth and transformation, uncover your unique leadership strengths, and empower you and your team to thrive and create lasting impact. Passionate about driving change within, around, and beyond, I love supporting fellow change-makers on their journeys.
I hope you’ll visit often, and I look forward to connecting and working together!
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