Recovering What Was Lost
Everyone has unique strengths and talents. Maybe you’ve lost sight of yours in the aftermath narrative of attacked abilities, competence, or overall performance. Did that leave your self-esteem suffering to the extent you believe you don't possess any strengths, talents or added value? The truth is, your strengths and talents are there, just waiting for you to tap into them. No matter how much time you’ve spent on your personal healing, there will be days when you feel like youve done no work at all. It’s times like this you that you need to remind yourself how far you’ve come and where you’re going. You and only you control the narrative of who you are. Whatever it is that brought you to this article, you are not here by mistake, this is your time.
Below, I’ve listed some strategies to help you on your journey. I want to make it clear that no matter how many strategies or resources I provide, you have to believe in yourself, stay true to yourself, and adopt the willpower and attitude to succeed.
Let's take a look:
1. Research: What interests you? Take a look at what has changed in your time away. Perhaps you think you're still strong in a certain skill, but aren't completely sure. This can be a success killer because it fuels insecurity, especially if this was an area of attack. Be mindful of your triggers. Be proactive, find out what resources are available and what it would take to develop your strengths and talents in this area. Then, commit to building your skills.
2. Have patience and practice acceptance: Reconnecting with your strengths and talents won't happen overnight. It takes patience and acceptance. Patience is not easy. Many of us tend to struggle to have patience, accept when we are fragile, or have shortcomings. Remaining aware of these two things will help you stay focused during the process by helping you maintain a realistic view. Always remember to reach out to your support system when you need the extra support, reassurance, or reminders.
3. Set goals: People are more successful when they set goals. Write down what you'd like to accomplish and what date you'd like to achieve this by. Be realistic when setting your goals and review them frequently to stay on track.
* Post your goals in places where you'll see them throughout the day. The refrigerator, bathroom mirror, and your computer monitor are a few ideas. This will not only keep you on track, but it'll also motivate you to reach these goals as quickly as possible.
4. Have Confidence. Confidence is a great tool. Don’t underestimate its power when you are reconnecting with your strengths and talents, especially since you may have heard unflattering, or inaccurate narratives. When trying to improve yourself in any way, believing in yourself and having a realistic outlook, almost guarantee you'll win the battle. There may be days when you're unsure of yourself, try to get back on track as soon as possible, and continue building momentum.
Final Thoughts
Approach this with the mindset that you are doing this to improve yourself, that'll make it easier to stay focused on the bigger picture. Hold to the belief that you can accomplish anything you set your mind to. By embracing these things, you'll be reconnected in no time!