Knowing Our Strengths Can Change Our Stories
By Steve Gahagen
There is power in our strengths stories. When we can clearly articulate our talents and how we leverage those talents in daily life, confidence and courage emerge. We begin to dream and see beyond our limitations.
Our team at PTYS has had the opportunity to walk alongside students to help them discover and play to their strengths. The transformation has been remarkable for many students who, for the most part, were unaware of their potential. Many had obstacles that might have kept them from writing a great story with their lives.
But through training and repeated life-giving conversations, the students’ stories have changed. Think of children who want to play together in the summer but are separated by a field with high grass. In June, the walk between the two houses is difficult and slow - the grass is high and the kids have to find the best way through. But by the end of summer, the path is worn and easy to follow. Instead of highlighting their weaknesses and shortcomings, these students naturally see themselves through a lens of strengths.
Here are a few of their stories:
Questions to consider:
What are your strengths and how do you leverage them on a daily basis?
Do you tend to see yourself from a strength or weakness lens?
How could you affirm the strengths of someone in your circle of relationships?