What if the best blocker on the team went AWOL for the big game? Or the first-chair cellist just decided to be a no-show for his solo? People get sick. Things happen. But what if I told you these two individuals didn’t show up to lead a stunning victory or get noticed for a solo, simply because they didn’t feel capable? They didn’t believe in themselves enough, or know themselves enough, to recognize their talent—and how their talent plays into the team goals or bigger picture?
Now, think about your workplace or your professional team. There is a stand-out leader or creative soul in every organization or company. What if that person decided to not show up that day? There would be something greatly missing that would impact each and every team member.
We’ve all been in those situations, when someone couldn’t make it—whether it be the cool and confident professional who always stays level-headed no matter what is thrown at him, or the rah-rah cheerleader—the one who always has a word of encouragement during even the most seemingly bleak moments.
I need to tell you that you’re that “someone” who is absent from the table. I bet you didn’t realize just how much people rely on your unique talents. We each have a unique set of innate abilities. Talents.
The key to refining your talent and unlocking its full potential is to first identify it. Once you know where that strength resides, you can better gauge how and where you fit within the larger team. Then, you start to see just how you matter.
The more you feel a meaningful part of the organization or undertaking, because of your distinct strengths, the more you are motivated to grow in the areas you, perhaps, were born to lead in.
It’s very engaging to contribute our strengths for the greater good, but not only that, it gives us the opportunity to truly perform. If we didn’t take that first step, identifying that talent, we would stay on the sidelines or not show up at all—instead of taking the winning jump shot that seals the game or nailing the anchor leg that secures the victory in the relay.
Open your eyes. Be on the lookout for your “sweet spot”. Get out there and be brave in the areas where you matter, and that matter to you.
