From Struggle to Strength

In this episode of Start With Small Steps, I share the deeply personal and transformative journey of understanding and owning my strengths. From childhood frustrations with writing to discovering a passion for math and science, I talk about how recognizing what you're naturally good at can shape your entire path forward.
The Power of Knowing Your Strengths:Growing up, I learned the hard way that forcing yourself to be good at everything leads to frustration. Once I accepted that writing wasn’t my strength and that I lit up around science and math, my entire academic and career trajectory improved. Knowing your strengths isn’t about limitation—it’s about focus.
Interest vs. Ability:I talk about how true success comes when interest meets ability. You might love a hobby, but if it doesn’t match your strengths, it can drain rather than energize you. I explain how to distinguish between fleeting passions and lasting competencies.
Feedback and Assessment Tools:Friends and coworkers revealed strengths I didn’t even know I had. Tools like the Clifton Strengths Finder and High Five Test added unexpected insight. These moments of reflection helped me reframe how I see myself.
When Imitation Backfires:I share the story of how I tried to mimic a successful coworker to get promoted. The turning point came during a work trip where she told me she could never do what I had just done. That moment helped me realize the importance of being the best version of me, not someone else.
Takeaways:Recognizing your strengths brings clarity, energy, and direction. Use feedback and assessments to identify your unique talents. Don’t waste time chasing someone else’s strengths—grow what’s already within you. Build your life around the things that feel effortless, exciting, and empowering.
Jill’s Links
https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com
https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJillday
https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI
https://www.youtube.com/@startwithsmallsteps
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod
https://twitter.com/schmern
Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com