I have often advised people of this: work to your strengths. Build your team with those who have different and complementary skills to yours. A humorous incident reminded me of this.
“How long ago did you realize that work for me results in work for you?” I asked my husband with a smile. Twice that weekend, I sought to help by assisting with household and car chores that are not my forte. It was well-intended. He does a lot to keep the house, garden, cars, and tools in good working order, and I wanted to contribute. Some of these are not my areas of expertise.
As so often happens, I started but then ran into a problem that needed his assistance, and I required instruction to complete the job. He gladly helps, but often it takes him away from whatever he was doing, so it all takes longer in the end.
I have many strengths and capabilities that he does not, and I am motivated to action in ways that he is not and vice versa. That may well be one of the secrets to the longevity of our relationship.
Seeking out others who differ from me has always been a successful strategy in my work. At times, this creates conflict as I don’t readily understand their point of view, and/or we don’t move as quickly to implementation because it takes time to agree on the next steps. But the outcomes are always better than they would have been in a ‘group think’ situation.
When I and others spend most of our time on activities at which we excel and have passion and capability, we are happier, we contribute more value, and our work is more engaging.
Know your strengths. Work to those strengths. Know what you are not as good at and seek others who complement your skills. Get engaged with others in brainstorming solutions, executing new initiatives, or poking holes in your plan before you launch. Not only will you derive better outcomes, but you also enable others to contribute in a meaningful way and provide recognition of their capabilities.
Waste little or no time berating yourself for your shortcomings. You will be more engaged and thus more engaging, and you will be pleased with the overall results.
© 2021 Lorraine A. Moore. All rights reserved. Permission granted to excerpt or reprint with attribution.
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