We are all great at something. What’s that thing that you do better than anyone else? This week is about tooting your own horn and recognizing the many things that you are great at doing. In case you need some help in getting started - here are seven (7) things to consider when determining where you excel.
1. Are you passionate about a group of people or a cause? Something matters to all of us - what’s the cause that you believe in? I am committed to people who want to find a way to live life doing what they love. I believe we would all be much happier – and the world a better place – if more people could spend their time and talents on what interests them.
2. Did you take a risk that paid off? More than a decade ago, I created a course called Turning Your Passion into Your Profession. I sent the proposal to the Learning Annex, a professional development organization in NYC. When they turned down my course, I took a chance and sent it to NYU, Columbia, AND Baruch College. Even though I had zero prior teaching experience, I took a risk. Lucky I did. NYU ran the course for more than 10 years, and Baruch College hired me to teach 5 courses over 5 years. Teaching then became a new part of my career. Whether you bought a one-way ticket to NYC, quit your job to travel the world, or just found a new job and no longer have to sleep on a friend’s couch – celebrate your big and small risks that paid off.
3. Are you really good at your job? What’s the one job or aspect of your professional life that you do better than others? I am great at motivating people to want to work with and for me, in part, because I continually let others know how much I appreciate them and value what they do. I pride myself on being a great supervisor, mentor, and coworker. What do you pride yourself on?
4. Are you a go-getter who goes after what you want? Sometimes life is simply about trying new things. Pat yourself on the back for trying new things and pushing yourself and others out of your comfort zone. Next time you decide you are going to “go for it,” no matter what happens – celebrate your ability to venture into something new.
5. Do people turn to you when they need encouragement or support? You may be a great cheerleader in your personal life. That person who motivates and inspires your family, friends, and others to work towards and achieve their goals.
6. Are you a great friend or coworker? Perhaps you are that person at work who makes anything seem better. There are some people who make work “work” because they are pleasant, positive, and flexible people.
7. Are you organized and able to help others organize their life and/or goals? Some people are really good at creating organization, structure, and discipline for others. Maybe you are a kick-ass personal trainer or life coach. Or perhaps you are simply that friend who helps others organize, declutter and simplify their homes, businesses, or lives.
This week identify and remind yourself of at least one thing that you do very well. Pat yourself on the back and celebrate this one thing that makes you uniquely special and one-of-a-kind.
