Discovering Your Strengths at Work

Episode Insight: As you explore your strengths, remember by embracing what you do best, you aren’t just advancing your career—you’re stepping into a role that truly feels like your own. Discovering your strengths at work is essential to becoming a valuable contributor and finding fulfillment in your career. However, identifying what you’re truly good at isn’t always obvious. If you’re unsure of your strengths, start by paying attention to moments when you feel in “flow.” These are the times when you’re fully absorbed, energized, and productive, often working with ease and enjoyment. Flow moments reveal where your natural skills and interests meet the needs of your work, giving you clues about your core strengths. Feedback from others can also be insightful. Colleagues, managers, or mentors can often recognize strengths you may overlook. By asking those around you for honest feedback on where you add the most value, you can gain a fresh perspective on your unique skills and contributions. Notice, too, what work energizes you versus what drains you. Tasks that align with your strengths generally leave you feeling uplifted, while those outside your skill set can feel exhausting. Identifying the activities that bring you energy points you toward areas where you can excel and stay engaged. Additionally, reflect on your past accomplishments to uncover themes in your successes. Big or small, these achievements often highlight your core strengths. To discover new potential strengths, consider stepping outside your comfort zone by taking on fresh responsibilities or projects. Experimenting with different types of work can uncover skills you never knew you had, revealing new areas of growth while building your confidence. Emphasizing your strengths rather than focusing on your weaknesses allows you to bring unique value to your team and organization. Leveraging what you’re naturally good at not only makes you more productive and innovative but also enhances your sense of purpose at work. By aligning your strengths with your daily tasks, you create a fulfilling work experience that enables you to contribute meaningfully. Recognizing and developing your strengths brings a powerful mix of satisfaction, engagement, and sustainable career growth—a combination that benefits both you and your organization. You can order my book, The Ownership Mindset, on Amazon or Barnes and Noble Follow me on Instagram or LinkedIn. Subscribe to my podcast Reflect Forward on iTunes Or check out my new YouTube Channel, where you can watch full-length episodes of Advice From a CEO! And if you are looking for a keynote speaker or a podcast guest, click here to book a meeting with me to discuss what you are looking for!