Strengths Finder

I recommend the book by Tom Rath Strengths Finder 2.0. Once you purchase the book, you get a code to use on the website and take a survey that is followed up with a detailed report on what makes you unique based on all your answers, not just your top 5 strengths. Mine top 5 were Context, Ideation, Input, Intellection, and Learner. Unsurprising to me, these strengths almost all have to do with reading, thinking, interest in ideas, and sharing of ideas. Walks in nature and glasses of wine were not mentioned, but I suppose a survey is not a crystal ball.

I went to an entire workshop on Strengths Finder at Capilano University; it was led by Patrick Donahoe. It included exercises as well as inspirational video clips featuring Marcus Buckingham. He explained the differences between strengths and weaknesses. Strengths aren't necessarily what you're good at, they are what you are passionate about...those things that make you feel strong. They sustain and restore you. Weaknesses, no matter how much you try to overcome them, are what weaken and deplete you.

Find your strengths, use them as often as you can in your daily life, and make your greatest contribution by using them. Veer away from your weaknesses as much as possible and invest in your strengths. Channel them. First, though, you have to find out what they are and fine-tune them.