Quick: what's the best way to become more successful? Is it better to study and fix your weaknesses or is it better to study and build on your strengths? If you're like most people -- in fact, 87% of the people -- then you picked the first option. Something there is about weaknesses that gets our attention. Indeed, for many people mulling over and repairing their flaws is a favorite pastime and preoccupation. We feel so noble when we acknowledge our failings and take responsibility for turning them around!
Unfortunately, positive psychology research reveals that deficit-based corrections are not as effective as strengths-based enhancements. That's the guiding principle behind the practice of appreciative inquiry, whether in coaching or in organizational development. The more we know about our strengths, the better our changes will be.
Example: in a 1982 University of Wisconsin study, unskilled league bowlers improved their scores more from positive self-monitoring (watching video recordings of their successful shots) than from negative self-monitoring (watching video recordings of their unsuccessful shots). In coaching and in organizational development, then, our approach assists people to do more of what they do well rather than to do less of what they do poorly. It's all about positive self-monitoring.
One book that effectively applies this concept is Go Put Your Strengths To Work by Marcus Buckingham. It can be used with our without a coach to leverage your strengths for success. If you have not already done so, I encourage you to work the program today.
Coaching Inquiries: What are your greatest accomplishments in life and work? What do you do well? What things fill you with energy, life, and laughter? How could you do more of those things? How could you leverage those things for success in other areas? Who could work with you to find out?
We invite you Email Us or to use our Contact Form to arrange for a complimentary coaching conversation with your own LifeTrek coach.
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