There are many ways to build on your strengths. One approach is to focus on the specific activities where you are simultaneously able:
To helicopter above the situation;
To be hands-on;
To then, when appropriate, shape what happens.
Great workers sometimes follow this path. They put themselves into situations where they see what is happening from above and, at the same time, they are fully engaged in the moment. They then focus on how to shape the situation to achieve success.
Different people explain this approach in different ways. Here is how one therapist described what happened for them.
“The first time I experienced this sensation was when I was running a family therapy session. This sounds odd: but suddenly it felt as if I was hovering above people in the room.
“Looking from above, I could clearly see the family communication patterns. At the same time I was still completely involved in the face-to-face communication with each person.
“Now I have a similar experience when teaching large groups. Whilst speaking from the front, I see the smallest movement made by each person. This helps me to see patterns and, if necessary, change strategy to get results.”
Exceptions sports players report similar experiences. Seeming to hover above the situation, they take pictures of what is happening and see patterns. They then apply their skills to follow their chosen strategies and achieve success.
Where does something similar happen for you? You may do this when counselling a person, playing a sport or doing another activity. You may do it when solving a technical problem, managing a specific type of crisis or tackling a particular challenge.
Looking ahead, how can you put yourself into more of these situations in the future? How can you then use your skills to make certain things happen and achieve success? What will be the benefits of taking these step?
If you wish, try tackling the exercise on this theme. This invites you to complete the following sentences.
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