Acknowledging Your Strengths Is a Sign of … Strength!

As caregivers, we spend a lot of our time meeting the needs of others. Unfortunately, that can mean losing touch with our own needs … and even ourselves … while we focus on caring for a loved one. That’s why this month’s theme, self-discovery, is so important.

We’ll begin our self-discovery journey this week with an examination of our strengths as opportunities. We are all unique with many different strengths. Yet, thinking about our own strengths can sometimes make us uncomfortable, especially if we’re more accustomed to focusing our attention on others. Many people struggle with this, either because they don’t recognize the value of their own strengths, or they think it seems like bragging.

But our strengths are an important part of our character. They represent where our interests lie, what our values are, and how we respond to challenges. Recognizing our own strengths is an essential part of building self-esteem.

Also, by acknowledging that we are individuals with unique and valuable abilities and qualities, we are able to separate ourselves from our role as caregiver. This can help us to be more resilient, to overcome challenges, and to grow.

I know it may be hard, but try to list at least 10 strengths that you possess. Think about what you’re good at; what you do that gets you compliments from others; what you’ve done to overcome challenges; how you’ve been able to help others; how you make others happy; and anything else that makes you unique.

Don’t forget about the full range of skills that you have – including physical (athletic, creative), emotional (how you relate to others or manage your own emotions), intellectual (knowledge, degrees earned, academic success), and interpersonal (relationship skills, helping others, leadership).

Then, after you’ve identified your strengths, consider how you can apply them to improve your life right now. In other words, think about how you can leverage your strengths to take full advantage of all those things that make you uniquely YOU! It’s all about taking the opportunity – and devoting the time – to improve yourself. And one of the best ways to do that is by focusing on your own strengths.

Remember, you are greater than the sum of your parts. Take pride in who you are, and embrace all of the things YOU can do.