Lead Through Strengths

Lisa Cummings and Brea Roper
Lead Through Strengths

Lisa Cummings and Brea Roper help you lead teams, build your work culture, and improve relationships with CliftonStrengths A.K.A StrengthsFinder. The "Lead Through Strengths" podcast was created for you if you're ready to stop taking the "path of most resistance" at work and in life. It sounds silly, yet it happens all the time when people get focused on fixing their weaknesses. It doesn't have to be so hard. Stop focusing on what's broken about you. Lisa Cummings, the host, is a Gallup Certified Strengths Performance Coach, so she brings you a wealth of corporate wisdom, combined with Gallup research. Many episodes are educational Q&A from our corporate clients. They're usually questions we get in our StrengthsFinder corporate workshops. Over 28 Million people have taken the CliftonStrengths assessment. If you're ready to get your mojo back, Lisa Cummings delivers it with straight talk and a fun-loving approach. Beyond CliftonStrengths training, she's also a coach, trained by the Life Coach School. With this show, you'll learn how to find your strengths and put them to work. If you manage a team, you'll hear ideas for leading your so your colleagues can come to work feeling more energized and engaged. We publish by season. Season 1: Career Q&A Season 2: Strengths Interviews Season 3: StrengthsFinder Q&A (also known as CliftonStrengths assessment) Season 4: Team Building 12 Week Strengths Challenge Season 5: One StrengthsFinder Talent Theme Per Week: Career Branding Adjectives for your personal brand, red flag situations for that talent theme, and action items to put that talent to use Season 6: Nine Core Concepts of Strengths Season 7: Facilitator Interviews (because, who needs Lisa only - we have lots of other great StrengthsFinder trainers for you) Season 8: CliftonStrengths Customer Q&A There's a lot of confusion about the name of the assessment because it is difficult to spell (or put the singular/plural in the right spot), and it has changed names. All of these are the same survey tool: StrengthsFinder 2.0, StrengthsFinders, StrengthFinders, StrengthFinder, StrengthsFinder, Clifton Strengths, CliftonStrengths, Clifton StrengthsFinder. Despite the difficulty with the word, the content all points to Strengths Based Development and leadership using StrengthsFinder with your team. In addition: here are some hot topic areas covered by audience questions so far: Getting promoted; discovering your strengths; differentiating yourself; coaching and feedback; marketing, branding, and promoting yourself; getting unstuck; developing your direct reports; noticing what works on your team; connecting and networking; personal leadership; politics and perceptions at the office; getting viewed as an A player; building trust and influence at work or in your industry; being a people-leader that you want to be, even when you're short on time; how to get your creative mojo back; understanding how your EQ (emotional intelligence) is more important than your IQ at work; stuff you didn't learn in business school that's hurting your career; getting unstuck and un-trapped; being a better leader; solving problems; getting past confusion; aligning your mind, body, and purpose in life; managing major life transitions; and taking a minute to reflect on what you really want in life

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    Are Strengths Nature or Nurture?

    We hear it all 👏🏻 the 👏🏽time 👏🏿: “Are strengths nature or nurture?”   In today's episode, we weigh in with their opinions on whether our strengths and talents are hardwired into our DNA or shaped by our environment and experiences. And, spoiler alert…we don’t always agree. 🫣   Listen in as we explore how nature and nurture play a foundational role in who we are and how we develop. You’ll enjoy some fun metaphors and personal anecdotes about the impact of childhood experiences and how understanding our nature can help us navigate our environments more effectively.   If you wonder about the interplay between your natural talents and the influences around you, this episode is for you. Thanks for allowing us to accompany you on your journey of self-discovery and growth, so you can lead through strengths! 🌟 Work With Us! Brea Roper Communication | Woo | Activator | Futuristic | Connectedness If you need a Strengths Hype Girl, for yourself or your team, connect with Brea at brearoper.com. She’s ready to deliver an inspirational keynote, empowering training, or transformational workshop. If you’re looking for an expert guide to support your internal Strengths efforts, reach out today! Lisa Cummings Strategic | Maximizer | Positivity | Individualization | Woo   To work with Lisa, check out team workshops and retreats at the Lead Through Strengths site. For 1:1 strengths or life coaching, check out the Get Coached link. For independent coaches, trainers, and speakers, get business tools support with our Tools for Coaches membership.     Takeaways It’s nature AND nurture!: Are Strengths nature or nurture? We think it’s BOTH! Remember: Talent (nature) x Investment (nurture, environment, experience, knowledge, skills, practice, etc.) = Strength You can’t grow what you don’t know! Recognizing our natural tendencies and how we can nurture them positively, rather than imposing them on others, is imperative for growth. Watch out for negative impact and blindspots.: Look to your natural patterns to understand why certain experiences have a negative impact on you. Also consider when your natural tendencies might be overstepping others’ boundaries.   Take Action ●      Identify your talents. If you haven’t already, take the CliftonStrengths assessment to identify your natural opportunities for growth. ●      Recognize the impact of your environment. Acknowledge how your upbringing and surroundings have influenced you. Consider how the people, places, and things in your life today are nurturing (or hindering) your talent. ●      Learn how your CliftonStrengths can feel honored or insulted. Use these insights to nurture your strengths and manage what might negatively impact you. 🎧 Listen now! p.s. - Don't forget to share this episode with friends who might find it intriguing! Let's spread the conversation about our nature, and nurture together! 🌿   Let’s Connect! ●      LISA: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook ●      BREA: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram   AI-Generated Transcript Lisa: I'm Lisa.   Brea: I'm Brea.   Lisa: And today's episode is all about nature versus nurture.   Brea: This is a really hot button for me. And a hot button, just meaning it's interesting, intriguing. Are strengths nature? Are they nurture? This is exciting. Do you want to start with your answer first?   Lisa: Okay. I think there isn't a clear answer. And I was very fascinated by this and still am. I think there's a part of us that is just DNA. And it doesn't matter if you drop me off in Antarctica when I was a toddler, I would have turned out in certain ways exactly the same. And I also think a lot of patterns in us come from nurture, come from our environment, our conditioning, the things we hear over and over again, or watch or see modeled in front of

    18 min
  2. Can You Become Anything You Want

    NOV 17

    Can You Become Anything You Want

    Throughout our lives, many of us have been told we could become anything we want. Unfortunately, without understanding our natural talents and motivations, this belief can set us up to pursue goals that may not align with our true selves and capabilities. That’s why we look to our talents: to understand our true desires, and align our aspirations with our strengths. By embracing the strength-based mindset of becoming more of who you already are, you can achieve meaningful growth that aligns with your most authentic self. This approach fosters a healthier relationship with your aspirations, reduces pressure, and ultimately leads to greater happiness and success. 🌟   Work With Us! BREA Roper Communication | Woo | Activator | Futuristic | Connectedness If you need a Strengths Hype Girl, for yourself or your team, connect with Brea at brearoper.com. She’s ready to deliver an inspirational keynote, empowering training, or transformational workshop. If you’re looking for an expert guide to support your internal Strengths efforts, reach out today! LISA Cummings Strategic | Maximizer | Positivity | Individualization | Woo   To work with Lisa, check out team workshops and retreats at the Lead Through Strengths site. For 1:1 strengths or life coaching, check out the Get Coached link. For independent coaches, trainers, and speakers, get business tools support with our Tools for Coaches membership.     Takeaways The Power of "Why": Understanding the true motivation behind your aspirations is crucial. Are you going after things because you’ve been told you should, or because they’re actually best for you? Neuroplasticity and Change: While our brains are capable of change, it’s likely not in your best interest to invest time and resources into trying to become someone you're not. Instead, focus on becoming more of the incredible person you already are. Grow the good! Coaching for Self-Discovery: Coaching is invaluable when trying to navigate your self-discovery and growth. Finding someone to guide you through this process can lead to greater clarity and fulfillment. Take Action ●      Reflect on Your Aspirations: Take time to explore why you want to achieve certain goals or become a certain type of person. Ask yourself where those desires come from, and whether or not they align with your true self. ●      Focus on Strengths: Instead of trying to become something you are not, identify your existing strengths and how you can leverage them to achieve your goals. Consider how you can use your natural abilities to reach desired outcomes. ●      Seek Support: Find a coach, mentor, or trusted friend who can help you navigate your aspirations. They can ask you the tough questions that lead to deeper self-discovery and help you stay accountable to your true goals. ●      Embrace Self-Love and Growth: Acknowledge and appreciate who you are while also striving for personal growth. Commit to loving yourself enough to seek improvement and development in areas that matter to you. Be sure to listen to the full episode for more insights and to reflect on your own journey of becoming. Remember, it's not about becoming someone else; it's about embracing and enhancing the incredible person you already are! 🎧 Listen now!   Let’s Connect! ●      LISA: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook ●      BREA: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram     AI-Generated Transcript Lisa: Hi, I'm Lisa.   Brea: And I'm Brea.   Lisa: And today's topic is around the question, can you become anything you want?   Brea: I say no.   Lisa: Whoa. That is decisive. Decisive. Tell us.   Brea: I mean, sometimes I want to be Michael Jordan. No, I'll never be him. Sometimes I want to be a penguin because penguins are awesome. No, never going to be a penguin. Doesn't matter how much I want it, how much I believe it, how much I try h

    18 min
  3. Believe in Yourself

    NOV 3

    Believe in Yourself

    Using Strengths to Believe in Yourself From time to time, everyone struggles to believe in themselves. Especially when faced with challenges and changes in their lives. Too often, this doubt can lead to feelings of inadequacy, and hold us back from the growth we desire. That’s why we look to our talents: to identify and question limiting beliefs, so we can shift our mindset to take actionable steps toward our goals, no matter how unattainable they may seem. As always, this episode is packed with insights and practical tips to help you believe in yourself and take those next steps on your journey of development and growth. 🌟   Work With Us to Unlock Your Ability to Believe in Yourself BREA Roper Communication | Woo | Activator | Futuristic | Connectedness If you need a Strengths Hype Girl, for yourself or your team, connect with Brea at brearoper.com. She’s ready to deliver an inspirational keynote, empowering training, or transformational workshop. If you’re looking for an expert guide to support your internal Strengths efforts, reach out today! LISA Cummings Strategic | Maximizer | Positivity | Individualization | Woo   To work with Lisa for 1:1 strengths or life coaching, check out the Get Coached link. For independent coaches, trainers, and speakers, get business tools support with our Tools for Coaches membership.     Takeaways on How to Believe in Yourself Beliefs are not fixed. We often label ourselves based on our past behaviors, like saying "I am a late person." But is that really true? It's essential to examine whether these beliefs are true or just perceptions based on specific circumstances. Always remember, you can change your mind. Bridge Thoughts: Change doesn’t happen overnight, and sometimes the leap to an aspirational identity feels daunting. Instead, consider "bridge thoughts" – small, manageable beliefs that can help you focus on the present moment and reinforce your commitment without overwhelming yourself. For example, if you're trying to live alcohol-free, instead of saying "I am alcohol-free," you might say, "I choose water today." This approach allows you to gradually shift your mindset and move toward being alcohol-free, one step at a time. Focus on the Positive: When making changes, it's helpful to concentrate on the positive motivations behind your choices. Reminding yourself why you want to change can anchor you during challenging moments. Self-Compassion is Key: Change is a journey, and it's normal to face obstacles along the way. Be kind to yourself during this process, and remember it's okay to lean on others for support as you work toward believing in yourself. Take Action so You Can Believe in Yourself ●      Identify Your Beliefs: Reflect on the beliefs you hold about yourself, especially those that may be limiting. Are these beliefs true, or are they based on specific circumstances? ●      Create Bridge Thoughts: Find an actionable step that feels more attainable than a complete identity shift. ●      Practice Small Choices: Start making small, intentional choices that align with your desired identity. For example, instead of saying ‘I am alcohol free’, try ‘I choose water today’. ●      Focus on Your Strengths: Leverage your unique talents to support your goals. Consider how your strengths can help you navigate challenges, reinforce your new beliefs about yourself, and make choices that support the aspirational you. ●      Seek Support: If you're struggling to believe in yourself, consider working with a coach who can help you see your strengths and encourage you to take the next steps. #BelieveInYourself #PersonalDevelopment #Podcast #SelfBelief #Strengths #Coaching #GrowthMindset #Productivity #Leadership #PersonalDevelopment  🎧✨   Let’s Connect! ●      LISA: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook ●      BREA: Website | LinkedIn | Insta

    28 min
  4. Appreciation and Recognition

    OCT 20

    Appreciation and Recognition

    We all know how good it is to feel valued at work… but, as a manager, is it worth the time and expense? And how can we ensure that our recognition resonates? In today's episode, we dive into the powerful world of appreciation and recognition! We chat about how everyone loves to be recognized, but not everyone enjoys the spotlight in the same way. You’ll hear us share our personal experiences with recognition. We emphasize the importance of understanding individual preferences when it comes to appreciation, because what resonates with one person might not connect with another. We also discuss some practical tips for recognizing your team or peers without breaking the bank. You’ll learn that simple, genuine compliments can go a long way, and how being specific about what you appreciate can amplify someone’s performance. Plus, we touch on the idea of the "platinum rule"—treating others the way they want to be treated. So, whether you're a manager or just someone looking to spread a little positivity, this episode is packed with insights and actionable ideas to help you create a culture of recognition in your workplace and beyond!  🌟   Work With Us! BREA Roper Communication | Woo | Activator | Futuristic | Connectedness If you need a Strengths Hype Girl, for yourself or your team, connect with Brea at brearoper.com. She’s ready to deliver an inspirational keynote, empowering training, or transformational workshop. If you’re looking for an expert guide to support your internal Strengths efforts, reach out today! LISA Cummings Strategic | Maximizer | Positivity | Individualization | Woo   To work with Lisa, check out team workshops and retreats at the Lead Through Strengths site. For 1:1 strengths or life coaching, check out the Get Coached link. For independent coaches, trainers, and speakers, get business tools support with our Tools for Coaches membership.     Takeaways on Recognition and Appreciation Recognition is Personal: Not everyone wants to be in the spotlight. While some thrive on public praise, others may feel uncomfortable with it. It's crucial to understand individual preferences when it comes to recognition. Pay attention to body language and responses when you acknowledge someone's efforts. This will help you tailor your approach and make your recognition more meaningful. Specificity Matters: Generic praise like "Good job!" can feel empty. Instead, focus on specific actions and results that you appreciate. For example, instead of just saying "Great work," try saying, "I loved how you handled that complex project; your analysis really helped us make informed decisions." This not only shows that you are paying attention but also reinforces the behaviors you want to see repeated. The Power of Intentionality: Our brains are wired to focus on what’s wrong. That’s why it’s essential to be intentional about recognizing the good in others. By actively looking for and celebrating strengths, we will create a more positive environment that builds trust and encourages people to work hard. In fact, research shows that frequent recognition can lead to a 40% increase in productivity! Take Action on Recognition through Strengths ●      Start Recognizing Immediately: Recognition doesn’t have to be a big to-do or include expensive gifts. It can be as simple as a verbal acknowledgment, a note, or an email. You can start small. The key is to just start. ●      Be Specific in Your Praise: Instead of generic compliments like "good job," focus on specific actions or results that you appreciated. Highlight what the person did well and how it aligns with their strengths to encourage them to repeat that behavior. ●      Utilize CliftonStrengths: If you have access to the CliftonStrengths reports for your team, use the language and insights from those reports to tailor your recognition. This will help you appreciate team members in a way that resonates

    24 min
  5. How to Get In Flow

    OCT 6

    How to Get In Flow

    In today's episode, we dive deep into the concept of flow, that magical state where time disappears and creativity flows effortlessly. We share our personal experiences with flow—what it looks like for us, and the unique ways we prepare for those moments. You’ll hear us discuss the importance of creating space in your life, whether that means blocking off time in your schedule or setting the right environment with candles and epic soundtracks. We also explore the difference between being in flow and simply being focused, and how understanding your own strengths can help you find your flow more often. So, if you’ve ever wondered how to get into that sweet spot of productivity and creativity, this episode is packed with insights and practical tips to help you discover your own flow state. Get ready to embrace the freedom to flow!  🌟   Work With Us and Help Yourself Get In Flow BREA Roper Communication | Woo | Activator | Futuristic | Connectedness If you need a Strengths Hype Girl, for yourself or your team, connect with Brea at brearoper.com. She’s ready to deliver an inspirational keynote, empowering training, or transformational workshop. If you’re looking for an expert guide to support your internal Strengths efforts, reach out today! LISA Cummings Strategic | Maximizer | Positivity | Individualization | Woo   To work with Lisa, check out team workshops and retreats at the Lead Through Strengths site. For 1:1 strengths or life coaching, check out the Get Coached link. For independent coaches, trainers, and speakers, get business tools support with our Tools for Coaches membership.     Takeaways on How to Get In Flow ●      Flow vs. Focus: There’s a difference between being in a flow state and simply being focused. Flow is characterized by effortless engagement and losing track of time, while focus can be more about forcing yourself to complete tasks. ●      Create Space for Flow: To get into flow, it's essential to create space. This could mean blocking off time for specific activities or ensuring you have a relaxed environment free from distractions. ●      Personalize Your Approach: Everyone experiences flow differently. Identify what works for you by reflecting on past moments of flow and recognizing the conditions that helped you get there. This could involve specific activities, environments, or even mental states. ●      Embrace Freedom: Finding flow often requires a sense of freedom. Maybe it's the freedom to let your mind wander, the freedom to eliminate distractions, or the freedom to color outside the lines and approach your work in a new, innovative way. Recognize what kind of freedom you need to tap into your flow state. ●      Leverage Your Strengths: Understanding your unique talents and strengths can help you create opportunities for flow. By aligning your activities with where you find natural yearning, learning, satisfaction, ease, and excellence (the five clues to talent), you will greatly enhance your chances of experiencing that effortless state.   Take Action as You Explore How to Get In Flow ●      Identify Your Flow Moments: Reflect on past experiences where you felt completely immersed and lost track of time. Write down these moments and analyze what conditions or activities contributed to that flow state. ●      Create Space for Flow: Block off dedicated time in your schedule for activities that allow you to enter a flow state. This could involve clearing your calendar, finding a quiet space, or eliminating distractions. ●      Prepare for Flow: Before engaging in tasks that you anticipate will require flow, take time to prepare your environment. This could include setting the mood with lighting, music, or other elements that help you feel comfortable and focused. ●      Practice Presence: Work on being present in the moment by minimizing distractions and allowing y

    31 min
  6. Discovering Strengths at Home

    SEP 29

    Discovering Strengths at Home

    Whether on a trip to Vegas, family reunion, or navigating the mountain’s edge, our strengths are there every step of the way. The question is, are they guiding, protecting, and supporting you? Or are they getting in the way, causing conflict and confusion?   In today's episode, we dive into the fascinating world of applying our strengths beyond the workplace. You’ll hear us share some hilarious and relatable stories about how recognizing and celebrating each other's strengths can help you move from frustration to fascination, transforming everyday interactions into opportunities for connection and appreciation.   If you're dealing with a frustrating situation using strengths at home, or just want to bring a little more joy into your relationships, this episode is packed with insights and tips to help you embrace your strengths in every aspect of life! 🌟   Work With Us to Discover Your Strengths at Home BREA Roper Communication | Woo | Activator | Futuristic | Connectedness If you need a Strengths Hype Girl, for yourself or your team, connect with Brea at brearoper.com. She’s ready to deliver an inspirational keynote, empowering training, or transformational workshop. If you’re looking for an expert guide to support your internal Strengths efforts, reach out today! LISA Cummings Strategic | Maximizer | Positivity | Individualization | Woo   To work with Lisa, check out team workshops and retreats at the Lead Through Strengths site. For 1:1 strengths or life coaching, check out the Get Coached link. For independent coaches, trainers, and speakers, get business tools support with our Tools for Coaches membership.     Takeaways on Strengths at Home Life Beyond Work: It's easy to get caught up in our professional identities, but we are whole beings with lives outside of our jobs. Our strengths don't just apply to our work; they can enrich our family interactions, friendships, and personal experiences. Recognizing that we can apply our strengths in all areas of life opens up new opportunities for connection and understanding. Appreciation Over Frustration: Moments of frustration can be transformed into appreciation by understanding each other's strengths. Instead of reacting negatively, taking a moment to pause and appreciate the unique talents of those around us can lead to healthier communication and stronger relationships. This shift in perspective can be a game-changer in how we interact with our loved ones. Communication is Key: The assessment is just the beginning. It’s crucial to have open conversations about our strengths and how they show up in our daily lives. By discussing our strengths with family and friends, we can avoid misunderstandings and create a more supportive environment. This dialogue allows us to celebrate our differences and work together more effectively, whether planning a trip or navigating daily challenges. Celebrate Strengths Together: Engaging in activities that highlight and celebrate each other's strengths—like family reunions with strength-themed t-shirts—can foster a sense of unity and appreciation within families. Take Action as You Apply Strengths at Home ●      Apply Strengths in Everyday Life: Reflect on how you can use your strengths outside of work, particularly in family and personal relationships. Consider moments of frustration and think about how your strengths can help you navigate those situations. ●      Communicate Openly About Strengths: Have conversations with family and friends about your respective strengths. Discuss how these strengths manifest in daily life and how they can complement each other, enhancing collaboration and reducing conflict. ●      Practice Appreciation: When conflicts arise, take a moment to pause and appreciate the other person's strengths instead of reacting negatively. This shift in perspective can lead to more constructive conversations and a better understanding

    20 min
  7. Rethinking Time Management

    SEP 22

    Rethinking Time Management

    "Where did the time go?" "If only I had more time!" If you're looking for productivity hacks or time management tips – this episode is for you. We've all been there. We believe time is our most valuable resource. Unfortunately, this often leads to overwhelm and guilt when our expectations don't match reality. We don't accomplish as much as we thought we would, our "to do" list keeps growing, and discouragement creeps in. What if there was more to time management than meets the eye? Is time truly our most valuable resource? Listen in as we rethink time management. 🌟   Work With Us! BREA Roper Communication | Woo | Activator | Futuristic | Connectedness If you need a Strengths Hype Girl, for yourself or your team, connect with Brea at brearoper.com. She’s ready to deliver an inspirational keynote, empowering training, or transformational workshop. If you’re looking for an expert guide to support your internal Strengths efforts, reach out today! LISA Cummings Strategic | Maximizer | Positivity | Individualization | Woo   To work with Lisa, check out team workshops and retreats at the Lead Through Strengths site. For 1:1 strengths or life coaching, check out the Get Coached link. For independent coaches, trainers, and speakers, get business tools support with our Tools for Coaches membership.     Takeaways on Time Management, Energy Management, and Productivity Energy vs. Time: We often fall into the trap of thinking that if we just had more time, we could accomplish everything on our to-do list. However, as we discussed, even with the same 24 hours in a day, our energy levels can significantly impact our productivity. When we're feeling drained or unwell, even the simplest tasks can feel overwhelming. Instead of solely focusing on time management, we should prioritize managing our energy levels to maximize our effectiveness. Quality Over Quantity: It's not just about how much time we have; it's about how we use that time. When we're in a state of flow and high energy, we can accomplish tasks in a fraction of the time it would normally take. We encourage listeners to recognize when they're in that productive state and to allow themselves the flexibility to dive deep into tasks that energize them, rather than sticking rigidly to a time-blocked schedule. Know Your Energy Drains and Fuels: Understanding what drains your energy and what fuels it is crucial. We discussed the importance of being aware of our strengths and how working within those strengths can help us maintain our energy levels throughout the day. By identifying tasks that energize us and scheduling them during our peak energy times, we can create a more productive and fulfilling workday.   Take Action as You Rethink Time Management ●      Assess Your Energy Levels: Regularly check in with yourself to determine your current energy levels. If youAsk yourself, "Given my energy level, what is the best use of my time?" ●      Identify Energy Drains and Fuels: Make a list of tasks or activities that drain your energy and those that fuel you. Schedule draining tasks during times when your energy is naturally higher, and plan to engage in energizing activities when you feel low.. ●      Create Flexible Time Blocks: While time blocking can be effective, allow for flexibility in your schedule. If you find yourself in a productive flow, consider extending the time for that task instead of sticking rigidly to your planned blocks. ●      Leverage Your Strengths: Identify your strengths and find ways to incorporate them into your daily tasks. Engaging in work that aligns with your strengths can help maintain your energy levels and enhance productivity. ●      Further Reading: Check out the book Soar With Your Strengths by Dr. Clifton to learn more about the Five Clues to Talent.   Let’s Connect! ●      LISA: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook ●      BREA: Webs

    19 min
  8. You're So Good At That

    SEP 15

    You're So Good At That

    You’re So Good At That Receiving compliments is difficult for most of us. But what if I told you compliments could be clues to your greatest talents? Areas where you see natural glimpses of excellence are actually your greatest areas of potential. So, the next time you hear someone say, "You're so good at that!" or “You’re a rock star!”, stand a little taller. Let your strengths shine in the spotlight! In this episode we explore: ●       how easy it is to overlook our own strengths because we’re so close to them. ●      the difference between skills and talents ●      the importance of feedback   So, get ready to embrace your inner rock star! It’s time to let your strengths shine.🌟   Work With Us! BREA Roper Communication | Woo | Activator | Futuristic | Connectedness If you need a Strengths Hype Girl, for yourself or your team, connect with Brea at brearoper.com. She’s ready to deliver an inspirational keynote, empowering training, or transformational workshop. If you’re looking for an expert guide to support your internal Strengths efforts, reach out today! LISA Cummings Strategic | Maximizer | Positivity | Individualization | Woo   To work with Lisa, check out team workshops and retreats at the Lead Through Strengths site. For 1:1 strengths or life coaching, check out the Get Coached link. For independent coaches, trainers, and speakers, get business tools support with our Tools for Coaches membership.     Takeaways Skills and Talents are not the same. Understand that skills can be learned and practiced, while talents are innate. You’ve either got it, or you don’t. Reflect on whether you enjoy what you’re good at, as this can help you identify true talents.   Compliments can be clues to talent. Pay attention to the compliments you’ve received, awards you’ve won, and times people have asked for your help with something. These moments of recognition and praise are shining a light on your areas of excellence. Pay attention and lean into your greatest areas of potential for greatness.   Embrace Feedback: Don’t shy away from asking others what you’re good at. Feedback can be a powerful tool for self-discovery and can help you see strengths that you may not recognize in yourself.   Take Action ●      Identify Your Strengths: Reflect on moments when people have complimented you with phrases like "You're so good at that." Take note of these instances as clues to your talents and strengths. ●      Explore Your Skills vs. Talents: Consider the difference between skills and talents in your own life. Ask yourself if you enjoy the activities that people recognize you for, and whether they energize you or feel like a chore. ●      Seek Feedback: Don’t hesitate to ask colleagues, friends, or family for feedback on what they think you excel at. Use this feedback to gain insights into your strengths. ●      Utilize Resources: Visit leadthroughstrengths.com/moreof to access a list of potential strengths and talents. Look for items that resonate with you and explore how you can incorporate them into your life or work. ●      Consider Job Shaping: If you find that people frequently ask for your help in a specific area that you enjoy, discuss with your manager the possibility of incorporating more of that work into your role. This can help align your job with your strengths and passions. ●      S.T.O.P.: When faced with tasks that drain your energy, consider the STOP method: Stop, Trade, Offer it up, or Partner. This can help you manage your workload while still contributing effectively. ●      Further Reading: Check out the book Soar With Your Strengths by Dr. Clifton to learn more about the Five Clues to Talent, including the topic of this podcast: Excellence. Let’s Connect! ●      LISA: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook ●

    19 min
4.9
out of 5
178 Ratings

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Lisa Cummings and Brea Roper help you lead teams, build your work culture, and improve relationships with CliftonStrengths A.K.A StrengthsFinder. The "Lead Through Strengths" podcast was created for you if you're ready to stop taking the "path of most resistance" at work and in life. It sounds silly, yet it happens all the time when people get focused on fixing their weaknesses. It doesn't have to be so hard. Stop focusing on what's broken about you. Lisa Cummings, the host, is a Gallup Certified Strengths Performance Coach, so she brings you a wealth of corporate wisdom, combined with Gallup research. Many episodes are educational Q&A from our corporate clients. They're usually questions we get in our StrengthsFinder corporate workshops. Over 28 Million people have taken the CliftonStrengths assessment. If you're ready to get your mojo back, Lisa Cummings delivers it with straight talk and a fun-loving approach. Beyond CliftonStrengths training, she's also a coach, trained by the Life Coach School. With this show, you'll learn how to find your strengths and put them to work. If you manage a team, you'll hear ideas for leading your so your colleagues can come to work feeling more energized and engaged. We publish by season. Season 1: Career Q&A Season 2: Strengths Interviews Season 3: StrengthsFinder Q&A (also known as CliftonStrengths assessment) Season 4: Team Building 12 Week Strengths Challenge Season 5: One StrengthsFinder Talent Theme Per Week: Career Branding Adjectives for your personal brand, red flag situations for that talent theme, and action items to put that talent to use Season 6: Nine Core Concepts of Strengths Season 7: Facilitator Interviews (because, who needs Lisa only - we have lots of other great StrengthsFinder trainers for you) Season 8: CliftonStrengths Customer Q&A There's a lot of confusion about the name of the assessment because it is difficult to spell (or put the singular/plural in the right spot), and it has changed names. All of these are the same survey tool: StrengthsFinder 2.0, StrengthsFinders, StrengthFinders, StrengthFinder, StrengthsFinder, Clifton Strengths, CliftonStrengths, Clifton StrengthsFinder. Despite the difficulty with the word, the content all points to Strengths Based Development and leadership using StrengthsFinder with your team. In addition: here are some hot topic areas covered by audience questions so far: Getting promoted; discovering your strengths; differentiating yourself; coaching and feedback; marketing, branding, and promoting yourself; getting unstuck; developing your direct reports; noticing what works on your team; connecting and networking; personal leadership; politics and perceptions at the office; getting viewed as an A player; building trust and influence at work or in your industry; being a people-leader that you want to be, even when you're short on time; how to get your creative mojo back; understanding how your EQ (emotional intelligence) is more important than your IQ at work; stuff you didn't learn in business school that's hurting your career; getting unstuck and un-trapped; being a better leader; solving problems; getting past confusion; aligning your mind, body, and purpose in life; managing major life transitions; and taking a minute to reflect on what you really want in life

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