Changing Perception about Strengths and Weaknesses–Part 2

Step 2: Reflection

The second step in the process involves some reflection.

First, consider the following questions:

1. Which of the two lists do you have the strongest feelings about right now as you read over them–your strengths or your weaknesses?
2. What words would you use to describe your sense of enjoyment or appreciation of such introspective exercises as this, where you are asked to examine your strengths and weaknesses? Is it a pleasure? A pain? Neutral?

Second, go back to your two lists now and place a check mark by as many as five of the chararacterisics on your list you would most like to see changed over the next 12 months.

Changing Perception about Strengths and Weaknesses–Part 1

Now I’m going to give you the steps I am working with from Chapter 4 of Breaking the Rules. The chapter is called Changing Perceptions, and it is primarily about developing a strengths-based mindset.

Step 1: Define Your Strengths and Weaknesses

The first step in working with strengths and weaknesses is to define them. It is pretty simple:

1. Grab a piece of paper and something to write with
2. Draw a line down the middle of the page
3. Title one column Six Greatest Strengths and the other Six Most Bothersome Weaknesses
4. Write the six strengths and weaknesses

It is very important to notice how you feel while writing the list. Notice how you feel as you write each one. You will need to remember these feelings to complete the remaining steps.