Strengths versus Talents - A Closer Look Will Reveal Who You Are

A look back through the years in the various fields, we had seen in awe some of these momentous feats that showcased talents of both men and women sometimes defying the science and laws of nature. While some used their talents, some used their strengths to break world records and perhaps quite rightly labeled as ‘The Fittest Man or Woman’ or ‘World Strongest Man or Woman.’ They are also others who used their brilliant minds to change the ways we live today and like everyone says the rest is History.

What actually drive these awesome people to do what they do.

Let’s take a closer look at the words I used which is ‘strength’ and ‘talent.’

Talent

When a person has talent, I would say that they have several attributes that are naturally in them. They have that those special genes in them that allow them to make decisions better, react faster, better athleticism among others. These special gifts are unique to each individual. A coach or teacher will find himself or herself a raw gem when he or she discovers such an individual.

Strengths

Strength is different from talent. An individual’s strength is triggered when he or she discovers some attributes as they grow up. They tend to either learn from someone, emulating that person he or she admire, and more often, the individual’s strengths are learned or acquired. Strengths are usually man-made.

It cannot be denied that both men and women possesses their unique talents and strengths which can ultimately help them reach their potential and use it to progress forward in their lives.

How does strength and incorporate into my fitness life?

I had recently concluded a training on coaching and mentoring using individual’s strengths. In the workshop, we were shared that each individual is coded with 34 strengths. My top 5 strengths are Connectedness, Learner, Communication, Includer and Woo.

Connectedness

This is a relationship building strength. Connectedness is about building bridges between groups of people. As a Coach, being connected is important as it helps me to create programmes that are suitable solely for them. This will create a win-win situation in which the clients are able to follow through and reach their goals.

Learner

I am sure that most of us had heard the term ‘Lifelong learner.’ Knowledge excites me and I get my thrill in learning something everyday. Knowledge can come in various forms. For example, you can find it via books, lectures, seminars, workshops, sermons and listening to an expert. I have to admit that listening is the hardest exercise (apart from burpees) that I encounter. Listening to my client’s feedbacks are important as it can help us to see my blind spots and ways I can improve my services to them. Listening to myself will help me to know my limits too. It is not healthy to overtrain and not to get enough rest.

Communication

I would say that I like to talk. Back in my early days in school, I always get into trouble by talking too much in class. I stand out in a group work because I give many ideas. As a Coach, I sometimes talk too much as some of clients pointed out. I am learning to express myself better too (I do hope I am not blabbering too much, right now.) It is important to communicate as clearly as possible so as to avoid any miscommunications.

Includer

Sometimes as a Coach or a Teacher, it is a good practise to get some ideas from your clients or students. They may offer some good insights and ideas on ways they want their workout or activities for that day. That does not mean that I can take a day off and let them run the show, I will give them guidance and inputs. I believe that such ‘allowance’ will give them a sense of ownership and customisation which they can enjoy the experience.

Woo

This attribute describes me as a person who loves the challenge of meeting new people. I derive satisfaction from breaking the ice and making connection with someone. Personally, I am starting to use that strength in me. I can be very cautious in dealing with strangers due to grown-ups telling me not to talk to them while I was growing up. As a Coach, I always look forward to keep my clients feel welcome be it online or offline. A small chat about themselves will help to ease their tension.

In life, there are times that people around us (even our loved ones) might not feel our strengths. It is not right or wrong and it is not your duty to convince them. The strengths that you possess are your unique possessions. Some may ‘get you’ and some may not. Do share with us your thoughts.

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