I’m not the best singer. I’m not the best dancer. I can play the piano OK. But I can write a great song. –Lionel Richie
I heard that quote yesterday and wondered how many of us have discovered what we’re really great at.
As I reflected further, I couldn’t help but think about appreciative inquiry (AI) basics and career conversations I’ve had in the past with some of my team members. In its simplest form, AI encourages us to seek out the best; look at what is working really well and build on that as opposed to focusing on what is not working and trying to fix it (or, worse yet, just complaining about it). I have always felt that same principle can be applied to our professional lives.
Instead of concentrating on what we don’t like about our work – which, let’s face it, many people do – consider what you love about your work and what you do really well. Then, find ways to do more of that. Your job satisfaction will go up. I dare say that job performance will go up. Just think of the opportunities that might present themselves if you found a job, or could tweak your current one, to do more of what you do really well.
There are many things that we can do, but are not the best at doing them. Then there is that certain something we do really well, our “great song.” Figure out what yours is and then challenge yourself to build your career around it.
The Tuesday Tidbit is the emerging leader’s weekly source for team building tips, leadership development content, creative ideas and general workplace inspiration. To discuss individual coaching or a group workshop at your office, contact me here and let’s chat!
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Photo credit: University Libraries, Bowling Green State University’s Photostream, used with Creative Commons License.
