Next Level Leadership: God's Plan And Purpose For YouSample

Develop Your Strengths

As a young leader, I often wished I had the analytical skills or calm confidence under pressure that I saw in more experienced leaders. I wanted to emulate them. Learning from great leaders has been an important part of my development, but I also discovered that I had to identify my leadership strengths so I could rise in my own unique way. 

God gives each of us gifts and talents -- things like the ability to solve problems, work with others, or think of new ideas. When you have clarity about your strengths, you can lead at your best. You feel more confident about your approach to work and how you interact with others. Less force is required, you tend to be more authentic, and you operate in your “sweet spot.” 

The challenge comes when you don’t know yourself – or when you don’t accept yourself for who you are. If you struggle in this area, draw confidence from knowing that God created you to be just who you are. The Apostle Paul reminds us that each person is designed to play a unique and important role. (I Corinthians 12:1). Similarly, we know God has created us to be just the way we are. (Psalms 139:14). 

You might also conclude that you’re not really like other leaders at all. That can be a little scary, too. We all want to see some of ourselves in others we admire. But the most effective leaders are unique. They retain their individuality as they tap into their gifts from God. 

Being different is attractive and makes you stand out from the crowd. The trick is: You must be you. If you try to be something you’re not, people will recognize it pretty quickly, and there is nothing less desirable than a fake.

Get to know yourself. Dare to be yourself. And make sure others have a clear idea of who you are, too. When you are confident in who you are, you will have confidence to lead as God would have you do.

Rise to the Challenge: 

· Explore your strengths. Be curious and vulnerable as you assess what you do well. 

· Take the risk of opening yourself up to others to get feedback, good and bad, to determine how to build upon your strengths and work on your weaknesses.

Prayer

Father, help me see who you made me to be. Amen.