I cannot see the forest because the trees are in the way!

At times we are so bogged down by the details that are in front of us each day that we miss the big picture: Especially when it comes to our own successes and failures. It can skew our perception of ourselves and what we are good at doing.

After thinking about our failures so often and for so long, we can become a bit cynical when someone says we have done a good job at something. We mainly remember failure and forget accomplishments, and it can take a heavy toll on our spirits and well-being after a while.

It’s time to take inventory of what you’re good at doing.

You have the power to change how you’re viewing the world and how it views you by understanding what you have to offer it.

When you’re confident about the things you are good at doing, you can hold your head high, answer job interview questions confidently, and perform better on the job.

It translates to your work:

When you know what you’re good at, you can transfer the knowledge to types of jobs you would be good at doing. You know what types of assignments at work to volunteer for because you know that you will probably excel at them and learn a few skills in the process. You’re better able to help newbies in the office, and you are seen as a leader in the areas you’re strong in.

……..Because You are In the Know!

Here are 3 questions to really think deeply about and to help you see your strengths in your daily tasks.

1.) What makes you truly happy?

Okay, so you might not get super stoked at the thought of creating a database of clients that your organization serves because you know it means a lot of hard work. However, you might really enjoy the creative and organizational process that the task requires, and, out of all the responsibilities you have at your job, you like this kind the best.

Outside of work, what makes you happy? Is there an activity you enjoy that really brings you joy and makes you feel peaceful or super excited? Maybe that talent or passion could be something that turns into a business that you start. Have you ever thought about working for yourself?

2.) When have you received praise for your work?

Think about the times at work where your supervisor or maybe one of your clients has been appreciative of the work you did. If you notice that the praise and thanks you receive seem to revolve around one skill, such as helping irate customers when they’re about to blow their tops, then that is probably a skill that you have that few others do.

3.) What do others say about you?

Get honest answers from others! This doesn’t mean put out a begging plea on social media for people to tell you all the wonderful things about yourself. Instead, you can phrase your question to your contacts on social media, to people you know and who know you well, and to people whose opinion you trust more delicately.

Tell them  why you want to know: “I’m trying to figure out my strengths so that I can identify what kind of work I’d enjoy the most. Could you tell me something you think I’m good at?”

Be ready to hear some weaknesses that people may offer as well, but take those in stride and as constructive criticism. Avoid taking anything negative that people say personally.

Asking people what they think your strengths are can be very insightful. You may not even be aware of some of the characteristics of your personality or your talents that people mention, and that can be very helpful knowledge to have.

Take time to think through these questions. Sit and ponder them deeply and carefully. When you do, you’ll be able to make a list of your strengths that you feel comfortable talking about on job applications, on your resume or CV, and in job interviews. You’ll be more comfortable applying for a promotion in an area that utilizes a lot of your strengths.

Keep a list of these strengths in a place that is visible to you and keep a copy for potential career changes.

When the daily grind gets in the way of “seeing the forest through the trees,” break this list out and remind yourself of your strengths in your own big picture!

By Michelle Raz of Raz Coaching. Specializing in helping people with executive function challenges associated with ADHD, PTSD, Stress, TBI’s and ASD Read more at www.razcoaching.com