Unlock Your Super Strengths: The Secret Sauce for Career Success

We often hear that to get ahead, we must fix our weaknesses. But what if the real magic lies in amplifying your super strengths? These are the talents and skills that you excel at, enjoy using, and want to be known for. Focusing on your super strengths can make you six times more engaged and effective at work.

To discover your super strengths, start by listing what you think you do well. Then, ask trusted friends, family, and colleagues to describe your strengths in three words. This external perspective often reveals hidden talents. Next, break down your learned skills — the specific knowledge and behaviors you've developed — into detailed categories. Finally, evaluate each potential strength against four criteria: success, frequency, openness, and happiness. Only those scoring highly, especially in happiness, qualify as super strengths.

One inspiring example is someone who initially undervalued their energy and positivity, but by embracing these qualities, transformed their leadership style and career trajectory. Remember, your super strengths become your career signature — the qualities people remember when you're not in the room.

Spend about 80% of your time nurturing these strengths and 20% mitigating critical weaknesses. This focus maximizes your impact and fulfillment.

Next, we'll explore how uncovering and living your core values can further align your career with who you truly are.

Sources: Summary of The Squiggly Career by Helen Tupper & Sarah Ellis, Toby Sinclair Blog 1 ; Shortform Summary 2 ; Deep Notes 3