When Making Habits of Success, Build on Strengths - Day 23

Yesterday, we explored the use of ritual to develop strong, positive habits. Later in the day, I remembered one other important point:

• Build upon your strengths before you try to fix your weaknesses.

Most of us are trained from an early age to be “well-rounded” - fairly good in all areas of life.  But, instead of spending a lot of time patching up our weak spots, why not take the strengths God gave us and build them up into super talents?

For example, a few of the habits I listed yesterday are based on what I consider to be weaknesses:

• Being on time to appointments.
• Taking a “renewal” break after every 90 minutes of concentrated work.
• De-piling and eliminating clutter once a day.

Although I like an organized workspace, I’m creative and make lots of messes. And I usually avoid doing the actual de-piling, filing, and putting away. Most of all, I hate to throw things out.

Likewise, I am ashamed at how often I am late, usually because I’m trying to pack as much into every moment as I can. And I often forget to take breaks, preferring to spontaneously “power through”.

Now, I can correct these areas. Certainly, it would be much more loving and selfless to be punctual. But I know I will see greater results faster if I work on my strengths instead.

Fortunately, I consider myself to be fairly good at:

• writing,
• planning,
• remaining calm,
• visualizing,
• acting with confidence, etc.

And I know that, simply by focusing on these areas, putting fuel on these fires first, I will see huge benefits and great ROI.

I can’t use this as an excuse to ignore important needs, of course. If I need to get fit, but feel weak as a swimmer, I simply need to do what I’m good at – walking, running, riding a bicycle. Since I'm a slow reader, and I have yet to fully embrace speed-reading techniques, I read while walking on the treadmill and listen to audio books.

Bottom line: I multiply talents first and patch the weak spots second. In this way, I see huge, positive results much more quickly (and feel encouraged as I go).

Comments

[Jim Miotke]

So my main reason for commenting is to test... several of my previous comments seem to have evaporated in cyperspace.

But here's a thought to take with you:

Have you created a list or mindmap or vision board of your strengths?

I highly recommend this. Brainstorm... ask your friends and family... spend a few days or more getting clear on what makes you unique and strong.

Post this on your wall so you're reminded all the time. It helps to see and remember the good.

[Sandra DeAmicis]

Hi Jim,
Your energy and enthusiam for everything you do inspires me. I want to be like you when I grow up. Thanks for all you do and who you are. Best to you and your family this holdiay season!
Sandra DeAmicis
listwithsandra.com