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How your CliftonStrength Belief hinders you

1st August 2024
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| Strengths
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Being able to notice how your Belief shows up means you maximise your potential to harness its power.

The Belief theme in CliftonStrengths, one of the 34 themes identified by Gallup, is characterized by individuals who have core values that are deeply held and unchanging. People with Belief are driven by these values, which provide them with direction, purpose, and meaning. They are passionate about their causes and are often seen as steadfast and reliable. While this strength can lead to tremendous dedication and a strong sense of mission, it is not without its potential blind spots. Understanding these blind spots can help individuals leverage their Belief talent more effectively while avoiding common pitfalls.

And for ideas how your Belief might come across to others, and what you can do about it, read our whitepaper on conflict and communication, it contains a table of all 34 CliftonStrengths.

Understanding Belief ® as a strength

Someone with Belief as a top theme has a strong set of core values that define their decisions and actions. They have a strong sense of purpose and direction. Often described as dependable and trustworthy they ere mission-oriented and inspire others with their passion and conviction.

Common blindspots of Belief hinders progress

The Belief theme in CliftonStrengths is a powerful driver of purpose and mission. However, like all strengths, it comes with potential blind spots that can limit effectiveness if left unchecked. By acknowledging and addressing these blind spots: rigidity in thinking, potential for conflict, resistance to change, overemphasis on values, difficulty in prioritizing, and risk of alienation—individuals with the Belief theme can harness their strengths more fully and constructively. Balancing passion with flexibility, empathy, and practicality can lead to a more harmonious and productive application of their deeply held values, ultimately benefiting themselves, their teams, and the broader causes they champion.

1. Rigidity in Thinking

One of the most significant blind spots associated with the Belief theme is rigidity. Individuals with strong Belief may find it challenging to be flexible or open to different perspectives. This can lead to a perception of inflexibility or stubbornness, especially in environments that require adaptability and innovation. While it is essential to hold true to one’s values, there are times when compromising or considering alternative viewpoints is necessary for collaborative success.

Mitigation Strategy: To mitigate this, individuals with Belief should practice active listening and seek to understand opposing views without immediately dismissing them. Engaging in open-ended questions and considering the merits of alternative approaches can help in balancing conviction with flexibility.

2. Potential for Conflict

Belief-driven individuals are passionate about their causes and values, which can sometimes lead to conflicts with others who do not share the same views. This passion, while admirable, can be perceived as overbearing or confrontational. In a team setting, this can create friction and hinder collaboration.

Mitigation Strategy: Recognizing the importance of empathy and emotional intelligence is crucial. By understanding and respecting the values and beliefs of others, individuals with the Belief theme can foster a more inclusive and harmonious environment. Effective communication and conflict resolution skills can also be beneficial in navigating disagreements constructively.

3. Resistance to Change

People with the Belief theme often have a strong attachment to their values and the causes they support. This attachment can translate into resistance to change, particularly if the change seems to threaten their core beliefs. In a rapidly evolving world, this resistance can be a significant obstacle.

Mitigation Strategy: Embracing a growth mindset can help. By viewing change as an opportunity for growth rather than a threat, individuals with Belief can learn to adapt while still honouring their core values. It is also helpful to focus on how new changes or initiatives can align with and support their fundamental beliefs.

4. Overemphasis on Values

While having strong values is a hallmark of the Belief theme, there can be a tendency to overemphasize values at the expense of other critical factors such as efficiency, practicality, or profitability. This overemphasis can sometimes result in decisions that are not balanced or sustainable.

Mitigation Strategy: Striving for balance is key. Individuals with the Belief theme should work on integrating their values with practical considerations. Seeking input from others who have strengths in areas like Strategic, Analytical, or Maximizer can provide a more rounded perspective, ensuring that decisions are both value-driven and effective.

5. Difficulty in Prioritizing

The passion and commitment associated with the Belief theme can sometimes lead to taking on too many causes or initiatives simultaneously. This can result in burnout or diluted efforts, where none of the causes receive the full attention they deserve.

Mitigation Strategy: Prioritization is essential. Learning to focus on a few key initiatives that align most closely with one’s core values can lead to more impactful and sustainable efforts. Techniques such as goal setting and time management can aid in maintaining focus and energy on the most important causes.

 

6. Risk of Alienation

Belief-driven individuals can sometimes alienate others who do not share the same level of passion or who may have different priorities. This risk is particularly pronounced in diverse teams or organizations where multiple values and beliefs are represented.

 

Mitigation Strategy: Inclusivity and respect for diversity are paramount. Individuals with the Belief theme should strive to create environments where all voices are heard and respected. Celebrating differences and finding common ground can help in building stronger, more cohesive teams.

Pairing the Belief theme with other CliftonStrengths themes can create powerful partnerships that mitigate the potential blind spots and enhance overall effectiveness. Here are some strengths that make great partners for individuals with the Belief theme:

 

1. Adaptability

Why It’s a Good Partner:

Individuals with Adaptability excel in flexibility and going with the flow. They can help balance the rigidity sometimes seen in those with the Belief theme by introducing a more open and responsive approach to change and unforeseen circumstances.

How It Helps:

Adaptability can complement Belief by helping individuals stay grounded and present, allowing for a more agile response to changing environments without compromising core values.

 

2. Harmony

Why It’s a Good Partner:

Harmony focuses on finding consensus and reducing conflict. This strength can help Belief individuals navigate potential conflicts by emphasizing common ground and fostering collaborative environments.

How It Helps:

Harmony can mitigate the risk of conflict by promoting peaceful resolution and understanding, making it easier for Belief-driven individuals to work effectively in diverse teams.

 

3. Strategic

Why It’s a Good Partner:

Strategic thinkers excel at spotting relevant patterns and issues and developing clear plans to navigate complex situations. They can help individuals with the Belief theme make informed decisions that align with their values while also considering practical implications.

How It Helps:

The Strategic theme provides a forward-looking perspective that helps balance passion with practicality, ensuring that decisions are both visionary and feasible.

 

4. Analytical

Why It’s a Good Partner:

Analytical individuals focus on understanding the factors that affect a situation. They bring a data-driven approach that can help ground the sometimes idealistic nature of the Belief theme in facts and logic.

How It Helps:

Analytical partners help ensure that decisions are well-supported by evidence and can highlight any potential oversights, leading to more balanced and sustainable outcomes.

 

5. Woo (Winning Others Over)

Why It’s a Good Partner:

Woo is all about connecting with others and building relationships. This strength can help individuals with Belief expand their influence and gather support for their causes by creating strong interpersonal connections.

How It Helps:

Woo partners can bridge gaps between Belief-driven individuals and others who may not initially share their passion, helping to build a broad base of support and fostering more inclusive environments.

 

6. Maximizer

Why It’s a Good Partner:

Maximizers focus on strengths and strive for excellence. They can help Belief individuals refine their approach, ensuring that their efforts are not just passionate but also highly effective and impactful.

How It Helps:

The Maximizer theme helps individuals with Belief achieve greater impact by focusing on what works best and seeking continuous improvement, thus enhancing the overall quality and effectiveness of their initiatives.

 

7. Empathy

Why It’s a Good Partner:

Empathy involves understanding and sharing the feelings of others. This strength can help individuals with Belief tune into the emotional needs and perspectives of those around them, fostering deeper connections and mutual respect.

How It Helps:

Empathy partners can help mitigate the risk of alienation by ensuring that the emotional and relational aspects of interactions are considered, leading to more harmonious and supportive environments.

 

8. Connectedness

Why It’s a Good Partner:

Connectedness is about seeing the bigger picture and understanding how different elements are interconnected. This strength can complement Belief by providing a broader perspective on how their values and causes fit into the larger scheme of things.

How It Helps:

Connectedness helps individuals with Belief see the interconnectedness of their actions and values, promoting a more holistic and inclusive approach to their mission and goals.

 

9. Positivity

Why It’s a Good Partner:

Positivity brings an upbeat and optimistic attitude. This strength can help Belief individuals maintain morale and motivation, especially during challenging times.

How It Helps:

Positivity partners can provide the encouragement and positive reinforcement needed to sustain long-term efforts, ensuring that Belief-driven initiatives remain energized and forward-looking.

 

10. Learner

Why It’s a Good Partner:

Learners are driven by a desire to continuously improve and grow. This strength can help individuals with Belief remain open to new information and perspectives, promoting ongoing personal and professional development.

 

How It Helps:

 

Learner partners encourage a mindset of growth and curiosity, helping individuals with Belief stay adaptable and informed, thereby enhancing their ability to navigate complex and changing environments.

Being aware of your blindspots can mean your Belief works for you

By pairing the Belief theme with complementary strengths, from a partner, or noticing how you own top themes interact with it, you can create powerful partnerships that mitigate blind spots and enhance their overall effectiveness. Thiscreates a balanced approach, blending your strong values with flexibility, empathy, and strategic insight. Embracing these synergistic combinations allows your Belief theme to maximize its potential and help you navigate your mission with greater success and fulfilment.

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Exploring the blindspots of CliftonStrength Adaptabiity

28th March 2024
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| Strengths, Tips & Advice
a white jigsaw puzzle with two pieces in yellow with process and procedufre wrtten on tehm.
Do you have a name for that innate part of your character that enables you to live in the moment, respond to change, or simply be there for your friends when they need you? Have you ever thought about what frustrates you? And how can you take ownership of this and leverage to be your best?
 

Introduction

CliftonStrengths is a powerful tool for individuals seeking to understand and leverage their unique talents. Adaptability®, one of the 34 strengths identified by the Gallup organization, brings numerous positive characteristics to the table. These ‘live in the moment’ traits are vital in an ever changing world. It also comes with its own set of blindspots that individuals must navigate to maximize its potential.

 

Understanding Adaptability®

Adaptability® is characterized by a flexible mindset and the ability to thrive in dynamic environments. Individuals strong in Adaptability® excel at adjusting to unforeseen circumstances, embracing change, and improvising when faced with challenges. They are often seen as calm under pressure and adept at navigating uncertainty. However, like any strength, Adaptability® has its limitations, which can hinder personal and professional growth if left unaddressed.

How may others perceive you?

Flexible and adaptive: Others may see you as someone who easily adapts to changes in plans, priorities, or circumstances. They may admire your ability to remain calm and composed, even in the face of uncertainty or unexpected challenges. 

Resourceful problem-solver: Your adaptability may be viewed as a valuable asset in problem-solving situations. Others may appreciate your creative approach to finding solutions and your willingness to explore alternative paths or perspectives.

Open-minded and willing to learn: Your openness to new ideas and experiences may be evident to others. They may see you as someone who embraces learning opportunities and is receptive to feedback, suggestions, and diverse viewpoints.

Team player: Your adaptability can contribute to a positive team dynamic by fostering collaboration and cooperation. Others may perceive you as someone who is easy to work with, adaptable to different working styles, and willing to pitch in wherever needed.

Effective in change management: In organizational settings, your adaptability may be recognized as a valuable asset in navigating change. Others may look to you for guidance or support during transitions, knowing that you can help them navigate uncertainty and embrace new ways of working.

Resilient and versatile: Your ability to bounce back from setbacks and adjust to new circumstances may be seen as a sign of resilience. Others may admire your versatility and your capacity to thrive in diverse environments or situations.

Balanced approach: While adaptability is your strength, others may also appreciate your ability to maintain a balance between flexibility and stability. They may see you as someone who knows when to adapt and when to hold firm, depending on the context or the importance of the situation.

If you have an upcoming review, new role, or job to apply for,

consider how you can demonstrate these characteristics from your past experiences.

 

Adapability’s blindspots

blindspots

 

Blindspot 1: Resistance to structure

One common blindspot associated with Adaptability® is a resistance to structure. While being flexible and spontaneous is a strength, individuals with high Adaptability® may struggle in highly structured environments where routines and predictability are valued. They may find it challenging to adhere to strict deadlines (not set by themselves!) or follow predefined processes, which can lead to inefficiencies and missed opportunities for growth.

Blindspot 2: Difficulty with long-term planning

With Adaptability® you may find you have a tendency to focus on short-term solutions rather than long-term planning. While being agile and responsive to immediate needs is valuable, it’s essential to maintain a strategic outlook and consider the long-term implications of decisions and actions. This struggle with prioritization of long-term goals or difficulty with uncertainty, can feel like a lack of direction or purpose to others.

Blindspot 3: Overlooking personal boundaries

Another blindspot associated with Adaptability® is the tendency to overlook personal boundaries in favour of accommodating others’ needs or expectations. It’s likely you may prioritize harmony and flexibility in relationships, sometimes at the expense of your own well-being or values. Depending on your other top CliftonStrengths, you may struggle to assert yourself, or establish clear boundaries, and this may lead to feelings of resentment or burnout over time.

Navigating your blindspots

 

1 Establish clear priorities and boundaries:

Ø  Define your values: Take the time to identify your core values, priorities, and long-term goals. Understanding what matters most to you provides a foundation for making decisions aligned with your values and aspirations.

Ø  Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries to protect your time, energy, and well-being. Don’t be afraid to be clear about, and communicate your boundaries assertively and respectfully, in both personal and professional settings. Recognize that saying “no” when necessary is essential for maintaining balance and preventing burnout.

2 Develop strategic planning skills:

Ø  Balance flexibility with structure: Embrace a strategic approach that combines adaptability with long-term planning. Dedicating time to set achievable goals, identify potential obstacles, and develop actionable plans, using your CliftonStrengths, a strengths goal setting worksheet, and also habit stacking (Read Atomic Habits) to build new habits. Strive to strike a balance between being responsive to immediate needs and maintaining focus on your own overarching objectives.

Ø  Anticipate change: Cultivate a proactive mindset by anticipating potential changes and preparing contingency plans. Stay informed about industry trends, market shifts, and emerging opportunities to adapt swiftly and capitalize on new possibilities.

3 Get to know who you are:

Ø  Reflect regularly: Take time for self-reflection (look up the Gibbs self-reflection model) to gain insight into your patterns of behaviour, responses to change, and areas for growth. Reflecting on past experiences can help you identify recurring blindspots and develop strategies to address them effectively.

Ø  Practice mindfulness: Cultivate mindfulness practices to stay present and grounded amidst uncertainty. Mindfulness techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and journaling can help you manage stress, enhance self-awareness, and make conscious choices aligned with your values and goals. Whether these practices work for you will depend to some extent on your other Strengths and mindset.

Ø  Learn to be more curious: Develop empathy and emotional intelligence to understand the perspectives and needs of those around you. Strengthening your interpersonal skills allows you to navigate diverse personalities, collaborate effectively, and build mutually supportive relationships.

By implementing these strategies, you can begin to be more aware of your blindspots, notice when they pop up and interfere with your productivity and happiness.

a white jigsaw puzzle with two pieces in yellow with process and procedufre wrtten on them. 

Summary actions

These strategies are essential tools for leveraging Adaptability® effectively and achieving sustainable success in a rapidly changing world. The end result is to benefit from establishing a balance between flexibility and structure.

Additionally, seeking feedback from others who excel in structured environments can help identify areas for improvement and provide valuable insights into effective strategies for navigating them.

Setting aside regular intervals to reflect on overarching goals, identify potential obstacles, and develop actionable plans can help maintain focus and direction amidst uncertainty. Collaborating with others who excel in strategic planning can also provide valuable perspective and support in navigating long-term challenges.

Finally, developing your self-awareness perhaps through using the Johari window, alongside taking time to identify your personal values, priorities, and boundaries can provide clarity and confidence in asserting yourself in various situations.


Finding other strengths to partner with

Strategic®: find a partner with a natural ability to anticipate future trends, identify patterns, and develop long-term plans. Partnering with someone strong in Strategic® can provide you with valuable insights and direction, helping you channel your adaptability towards achieving strategic goals more effectively.

Positivity®: Positivity® brings optimism, enthusiasm, and resilience to challenging situations. Collaborating with individuals strong in Positivity® can uplift your spirits during times of change and uncertainty, fostering a more positive and supportive work environment.

Achiever®: identify a partner who thrives on setting and accomplishing goals. Pairing your Adaptability® with the drive and determination of someone strong in Achiever® can help you stay focused and motivated, ensuring that you translate your Adaptability® into tangible results and accomplishments.

Communication®: Strong communication skills are essential for conveying ideas, building relationships, and navigating change effectively. Partnering with individuals strong in Communication® can enhance your ability to articulate your thoughts, influence others, and foster collaboration amidst uncertainty.

Analytical®: finding a partner who excels at gathering and interpreting data to make informed decisions gives you facts and evidence. Collaborating with someone strong in Analytical® can provide you with valuable insights and evidence-based reasoning to support your adaptable approach, ensuring that your decisions are well-informed and grounded in data.

Learner®: Learners have a thirst for knowledge and continuous growth. Partnering with individuals strong in Learner® can inspire you to embrace change as an opportunity for personal and professional development, encouraging you to adapt and evolve in response to new challenges and opportunities.

Empathy®: Empathy® fosters understanding, compassion, and connection with others. Cultivating empathy can enhance your interpersonal skills, enabling you to navigate change with sensitivity and consideration for the needs and feelings of those around you.

Arranger®: Arrangers excel at orchestrating complex tasks and resources to achieve desired outcomes. Collaborating with individuals strong in Arranger® can help you manage change more effectively by organizing resources, delegating responsibilities, and adapting plans as needed to navigate unforeseen challenges.


And finally

Overall, how others see your Adaptability® strength will likely be influenced by their own perspectives, experiences, and interactions with you. Your deepened awareness of  how Adaptability both helps and hinders you means you are more in control of influencing how others perceive and appreciate your contribution through this valuable strength.

Revisit your CliftonStrengths Top 5 (go to www.gallup.access.com/access and login in) . The new report launched in 2024 helps you think through how your top strengths influence each other. 


DISCLAIMER

Adaptabiity® is a registered mark of Gallup. This link takes you to a series of podcasts on the theme. 

The views, interpretations, and thoughts expressed in this article are solely those of the author.

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Navigating Strengths: Unveiling Blindspots in CliftonStrengths, exploring Activator

27th February 2024
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| Strengths, Tips & Advice
An orange and turquoise swing seats. with text - to help out the Activator Talent

Introduction

In the world of personal development and self-discovery, the CliftonStrengths assessment has become a powerful tool for individuals seeking to understand and leverage their unique talents. Activator, one of the 34 strengths identified by the Gallup organization, is characterized by a keen ability to turn thoughts into action. However, like any strength, Activator® comes with its own set of blindspots that individuals should be aware of to maximize its benefits.

With Activator® at Number 4, I am only too aware of times when it has not served me well. 

Understanding Activator

Before delving into the blindspots, let’s first explore what Activator® brings to the table. Individuals with high Activator® often possess a natural inclination to initiate, propel ideas into motion, and catalyze change. They thrive in environments where quick decisions and immediate action are required. Activators® are the driving force behind many successful projects, as they are adept at pushing through inertia and transforming ideas into reality.

 

Activator’s Blindspots

blindspots

Blindspot 1: Impulsivity Over Deliberation

While the ability to act swiftly is a valuable trait, Activators® may fall prey to their impulsivity. The eagerness to jump into action without thorough consideration can lead to hasty decisions that may not be well thought out. It’s crucial for individuals with high Activator® to recognize the importance of balance, ensuring that they allow adequate time for careful deliberation, especially in situations where a more measured approach is required.

Blindspot 2: Insensitivity to Others’ Pacing

The sense of urgency and desire for immediate action that comes with Activator® can inadvertently overshadow the pacing preferences of others. Colleagues or team members who value a more deliberate and contemplative approach may feel overwhelmed or dismissed by the Activator’s rapid pace. It’s essential for individuals with Activator® to cultivate an awareness of varying work styles and learn to adapt their pace to accommodate collaborative efforts.

Blindspot 3: Neglecting Long-Term Strategy

Activators® excel in initiating tasks and projects, but their blindspot may lie in neglecting the long-term strategic perspective. The focus on immediate action may lead to a lack of planning for sustained success. To overcome this blindspot, Activators® should consciously set aside time for strategic thinking and consider the broader implications of their actions on future endeavours.

Blindspot 4: Burnout Due to Continuous Action

The perpetual need for action can lead Activators® down a path of constant busyness, potentially resulting in burnout. It’s essential for individuals with high Activator® to recognize the importance of self-care and balance their intense drive with periods of rest and rejuvenation. Incorporating moments of reflection and relaxation into their routines can help prevent burnout and ensure long-term well-being. From a recent workshop discussion, I was sharing a story about my new garden swing seat and how I’ve discovered that the motion of the swing stills my brain. There were 3 other high Activator® people present and they laughed loudly, sharing their same experience!

Blindspot 5: Resistance to Change

Paradoxically, Activators, despite being catalysts for change, may develop a blindspot when it comes to adapting to change themselves. The constant need for action can create resistance to altering their own established routines or processes. To overcome this blindspot, Activators® should actively embrace change and view it as an opportunity for growth rather than a disruption to their preferred pace.

Navigating your blindspots

 
An orange and turquoise swing seats. with text - to help out the Activator Talent

Navigating the blindspots associated with Activator® requires a thoughtful and intentional approach. Here are three key strategies to help you navigate your Activator® blindspots effectively:

1.    Cultivate Mindful Decision-Making:

Pause and Reflect: Recognize the value of taking a moment to pause and reflect before jumping into action. Embrace a conscious decision-making process that involves considering the potential consequences and implications of your actions. This practice allows you to harness the power of Activator® while avoiding impulsive decisions that may lead to unintended outcomes.

Consult Others: Seek input from colleagues, friends, or mentors before making significant decisions. This collaborative approach not only provides diverse perspectives but also ensures that you take into account the preferences and concerns of others. By involving others in the decision-making process, you mitigate the risk of overlooking crucial details and enhance the overall quality of your choices.

2.    Embrace Strategic Planning:

Allocate Time for Strategy: Intentionally set aside dedicated time for strategic thinking and planning. Create a balance between your natural inclination for immediate action and the long-term vision of your goals. Establish a routine that includes regular moments for evaluating the broader implications of your actions, identifying potential challenges, and crafting strategic plans to navigate them effectively.

Prioritize and Sequence Tasks: Recognize that not every task requires immediate attention. Develop the ability to prioritize tasks based on their significance and urgency. By sequencing your actions strategically, you ensure that your energy is directed towards tasks that align with your long-term objectives, reducing the likelihood of burnout and enhancing overall productivity.

3.    Build Adaptive Communication Skills:

Understand Others’ Pacing: Develop a heightened awareness of the varied work styles and pacing preferences of your team members or collaborators. Tailor your communication and approach to accommodate different perspectives. This adaptability fosters a more inclusive and harmonious working environment, preventing potential tension caused by an overly assertive or rapid approach.

Communicate Change Effectively: Actively work on embracing change and communicate your enthusiasm for it. Clearly articulate the benefits of the proposed changes and address concerns that others may have. This proactive communication style helps build trust and collaboration, mitigating resistance to change and ensuring a smoother transition for everyone involved.

By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine and mindset, you can navigate the blindspots associated with Activator® more effectively. Cultivating mindfulness, embracing strategic planning, and developing adaptive communication skills will not only enhance the positive impact of your Activator® strength but also contribute to your overall success and well-being.

Conclusion

Activator® is a powerful strength that propels individuals into action and drives results. However, like all strengths, it comes with its own set of blindspots that individuals must navigate to harness its full potential. By cultivating self-awareness, embracing balance, and recognizing the impact of their actions on both themselves and others, individuals with high Activator® can transform their blindspots into opportunities for continued growth and success in their personal and professional lives.

And finally, revisit your CliftonStrengths Top 5 (go to www.gallup.access.com/access and login in) . The new report launched in 2024 helps you think through how your top strengths influence each other. 

 

 

DISCLAIMER

Activator® is a registered mark of Gallup. This link takes you to a series of podcasts on the theme. 

The views, interpretations, and thoughts expressed in this article are solely those of the author.

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