First Article in the Series:
Passions, Strengths & Values
Let’s talk about your passions! Or at least begin the conversation. You are now ready to embark on the next step in creating the life of your dreams. In this next series of messages, you will uncover your passions, get to know your strengths and identify your values. These three things – passions, strengths and values – undergird all that we do. Unfortunately, we don’t give enough attention to these areas and then wonder why our lives are out of sorts.
Passions fuel us in ways deep and profound. Think of that person you know whose life seems to be infused with a power and energy around all that they do. That what one considers work, this person does with ease and a flow that connects throughout their life. We may look at this person and think, “they were born to do this” and how fortunate they are. Yes, they probably were born to do what it is they do, yet I am willing to bet they invested time and energy into figuring out just what that is.
Strengths complement passions in that they help us perform with ease what is necessary to live out our passions. We are given all the tools we need to fulfill our passions; we just have to discover them and learn how to use them. Strengths are those things you do easily while others marvel at the ease in which you do them. Most of us have an idea of what we are good at. When we confirm our strengths, we then move forward from a place of confidence (with faith) that we have the ability to do and do well!
Values are the emollients that make all you do flow with ease. These are the principles, morals and beliefs that guide you – your internal compass of acting with integrity. When you are out of integrity, life bumps and grinds in a confusing sort of way. You know you are living your passions and operating from your strengths, yet the flow is missing. Look to your values to see if something isn’t amiss. To do so, you need to know what your values are.
The next several weeks will begin an in-depth exploration of passions, strengths and values. Your work in this area will clarify that vision of the life of your dreams. You will know where to focus your efforts and the steps to take in the direction of your dreams.
Happy Valentine’s Day!