We all know it happens; we create such intense levels of fear and doubt that we can’t see our way out. We believe it only happens to us and we hide it because it feels like weakness. The reality is we are actually holding our greatest asset, our strengths hostage by perpetuating negative feelings, lies about ourselves and a lack of responsibility for our actions. This is a part of the human experience; this is what everyone faces at some point in their lives. What is different about the people that are able to crawl out from under that rock of self-oppression?
Strong, positive individuals choose to learn and grow, connect and contribute, and own their unique presence in the world.
If you are interested in self-awareness, you are probably on the path of positive thinking and strengths intelligence. Discovering your strengths profile through the StrengthsFinder 2.0 assessment is a starting point, however, if you stop there you are missing the diamond in the rough when it comes to full awareness and application. Strengths intelligence is just that, full awareness of what your strengths are, what they are not and being completely open to allowing your weaknesses to be an opportunity for others to contribute their strengths.
Are you actually holding your own strengths hostage because of fear and doubt?
Everyone experiences fear; everyone has doubts about themselves, the Universe and the meaning of life. When fear is allowed to fester, turn into harmful habits and take form in our bodies as disease and pain, we are also holding the most powerful tool in our toolbox on lockdown. We are unable to contribute, for our own good, the God-given tools of personality that will pull us out of the deep abyss of depression and discouragement.
How can I release the hold that fear and doubt have on me and harness the power of my strengths to generate positive thoughts, feelings and productive action?
Step #1: Identify that you have hit rock bottom. Actually visualize the end of the road if you continue on this path.
- Name the feelings.
- Identify the thoughts and limiting beliefs as lies you are telling yourself.
- Take responsibility for self-defeating behaviors and habits.
Step #2: Name what you know to be true.
- I know my strengths. I know my weaknesses. I am ok with both realities.
- I have experienced success in the past. What were the factors involved?
- What does success look like right now?
- What needs to shift so I can step into this new picture of success?
Step #3: Reframe the present to fit your vision of success!
- Write down new positive thoughts about your situation, record yourself reading those words and play it back to yourself repeatedly.
- Create a vision that connects you with feelings of hope, love and service to others.
- Take one step forward, one new action and do it consistently for 90 days.
- Find an accountability partner (or coach) to support you and guarantee your success.
Giving in to negativity is giving into the most prevalent human temptation.
No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.
I Corinthians 10:13
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