If you’ve read any of my postings on ASTD BlogCascadia, you may know that I’m a Strengths Zealot. That means I subscribe to the belief that it is more productive to focus growth and development on maximizing one’s talents than on improving one’s weaknesses. This movement was begun years ago by Donald O. Clifton of the Gallup Organization. He spearheaded Gallup’s strengths movement and partnered up with Marcus Buckingham to write Now, Discover Your Strengths, a book that has had a profound impact on my life. After reading it, I felt like I was no longer the odd one out for having rebelled against being told to become a “well-rounded” professional. That always felt wrong and now I was free from the feeling that I had to conform!
I have taken the Clifton StrengthsFinder instrument several times, and each time three of my top five have remained constant: Communication, Positivity, and Responsibility. They speak so strongly to the person I see when I look in the mirror. The great thing about this instrument is that it reflects what I feel I am strong in – and, as our friend Bob Pike says, “People don’t argue with their own data.” 
Next time, I’ll share a bit about how specifically the Strengths Revolution has improved my life. In the meantime, I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Shari
February 21, 2008 at 12:06 am
Of course, I completely agree with you Shari – let’s celebrate what is great about ourselves! I also believe your positivity strength is a valuable asset since it energizes those around you (making every team you are a part of that much better).
I am currently working on a project involving the Appreciative Inquiry approach to training, and it streamlines with the Strenthsquest vision: looking for what is good, great, and effective – then build upon it! Just another example of how a positive approach can lead to positive changes!
February 21, 2008 at 6:40 am
Jennifer – thank you for your kind words. I agree with you that positive generates positive! And I cannot wait to hear more about your AI project! It certainly does align with the strengths approach. Would you be willing to share more on that as you go?
Shari
February 21, 2008 at 4:54 pm
Yes, strengths are such a relief. The quality of my work is so much higher when it is aligned with what I am good at. I’m slowly learning to hire people who are passionate about things I am not. Results in better teams, and much more pleasant work environments for all.
February 21, 2008 at 7:14 pm
High five, Christine! Although it is often comforting at first to surround myself with people who are just like me, I too find that I’m much more productive when I look for partners with skills that complement, rather than dupicate, my own. In my case, it has taken time and some professional maturity to get to this point, but it is so worth the effort.