(audio version available at the end of this blog)

We are three modules in and this Success U cohort is phenomenal.  Twelve intelligent, gifted, ambitious, and caring people, all in one room once a week to discuss and act upon a definition of success that works for life in the 21^st century.

Success is the process of goal achievement that enhances our emotional and physical well-being while we avoid the crippling cycle of burnout.

So how do we achieve goals while avoiding burnout?

Well this week we learned about a strategy for living that keeps us away from the burnout zone and it’s called . . . Strength Focus.

I have written dozens of blogs, and I would guess that at least ten percent touch upon the topic of strengths.  And for good reason.

How often do you hear people exclaim, “I gotta work on my <blank>.”  I would argue that <blank> is usually a weakness.

For me I might fill in the blank with . . .

1. Prone to egocentrism

2. Prone to narcissism

3. Prone to display impatience with others

What are your top three weaknesses?  I bet it takes you less than sixty seconds to identify them (took me about 15 seconds).

Let Your Weaknesses Go!

At Success U we understand the human desire to identify and fix weaknesses, but we do not subscribe to the merits of such an exercise.

In fact, when you spend time 1) identifying your strengths (and it takes far longer than sixty seconds) and then 2) practicing those strengths, one of the greatest benefits you receive is . . . your weaknesses lose their hold on you.

Why?

Because the strengths we explore in class are rooted in virtues, virtues that make life worth living to its fullest, virtues that place us on par with our fellow woman and man, and virtues that crowd out our weaknesses as we explore living life from a posture of experimentation and boldness.

Some examples . . .

I am falling in love with this Success U cohort, and the capacity to love is one of my top ten strengths.

I enjoy devising new ways to teach each module, and creativity is my top strength.

I listen to my students’ comments with an open mind and draw real-world and useful conclusions so the entire class benefits, and open mindedness is one of my top five strengths.

I laugh with them as we connect and inspire each other to reach our goals in a collaborative, supportive, and fun environment, and humor is one of my greatest strengths.

In short, Success U continues to strengthen me.  I love everything it stands for and I love watching my students grow as I grow, using one strength at a time.

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If you have any questions about coaching please feel free to contact me at scott@kineticcoaching.co, and remember I always offer a complimentary 30-45 minute session to prospective clients to determine if we want to work together.