How to Identify Your Unique Talents

from Christine Harvey

First, WHY would you want to identify your unique talents?

For me the answer is that when you know your unique talents, you can use them more effectively. For example, what if you discover that you are a good verbal communicator? Then you discover that most people have a fear of speaking out in groups. Then, the next time you are in a room full of people, but only a few are speaking on one side of the issue, you’ll be more likely to bring the other side of the issue forward. Why – because you know that your unique skill is verbal communication. Your skill could make or break an issue. Your skill could be completely different, but by knowing what it is, you’ll have the courage and conviction to use is more often. This leads you to your dreams and your purpose in life.

Second, HOW do you discover your unique talents?

The answer is easy. Just go back to something really special in your life. Maybe an accomplishment. Now ask yourself, “What was the skill or talent I used?” I’ll give you an example from my own life. As you read ahead, think of an accomplishment that gave you great satisfaction, and apply the same principles to get to your unique talent.

Here’s my example. In 1990, when the Communist Wall went down, I went to Czechoslovakia and started a Management Training Institute. I knew no one there when I went. Over a 4 year period, I started the company, hired the people and the translators, worked out the double tax agreements, set up a structure to train 210 trainers, had an advisory board, appointed a joint venture Czech partner to run the Institute, and trained 40,000 people in management, sales, marketing, public speaking and motivation.

Now to get to my unique talent, I have to tap into the real buzz for me, not the grueling parts that I didn’t like. For example, I didn’t like having to keep tabs on quality control. Whenever I told them to print a flyer in black and white, it seemed to come out in pink and green. That was frustrating. So what did I like? What gave me the real thrill? Well, I remember once taking all our trainers to Monte Carlo as a bonus for superior performance. I remember preparing my speeches to acknowledge them and motivate them. That gave me a huge buzz. So from that I can conclude that a unique talent for me is the ability to motivate groups, particularly my groups.

What else did I love about that aspect of my life? Well, I remember often going on a planning retreat with my Institute joint venture partner Eva, and having green light planning sessions. We would talk for hours on ideas and plans, write them down, and then set an implementation schedule. One time we met for the weekend in a gorgeous forest setting, and I remember settling into a corner in the lounge over a glass of wine as our ideas flowed. Another time in a European café overlooking a precious setting. So what does that tell me about a unique talent? It tells me that I have a unique talent for results through collaboration. And, that my mind is best stimulated in beautiful environments.

Ok, now what comes to your mind? Think back to your most exciting times in life. What happened? Maybe it was an accomplishment, maybe an award, maybe a fantastic trip with friends, maybe something back in your school days, maybe a job or a promotion. Maybe an acknowledgment. Don’t get blocked by feeling you have to have the RIGHT thing. Anything you choose will help you tap into your unique talents. Get that accomplishment or event in mind, then tap into the feeling of satisfaction. What was it? What unique talent does that lead you to? Jot it down, and glance at it throughout the day. Take the next 48 hours to use it as often as you can – perhaps in each new setting or meeting you encounter. See how that feels and how it impacts your life and the lives of others.

One thing I’ll guarantee, is that as you start to use your unique abilities consciously, the world around you will shift. You’ll see miracles happen for yourself and others!

We’ll be doing more of this on our May 30th member call at 3 Pacific/ 6 Eastern, so if you know someone who should join, invite them to go to www.WomenforWealth.com