What you focus on grows: The benefits of strengths-based training …

For many Christians, personal, professional, and spiritual growth often involves a focus on overcoming weaknesses. We delve into introspection, seeking to identify and conquer our shortcomings. Therapy sessions might dissect our negative thought patterns, and self-help books often guide us in fixing what’s broken. While this approach has its merits, it can leave us feeling depleted, neglecting a powerful truth: what you focus on grows.

Strengths-based training flips the script. Instead of dwelling on weaknesses, it emphasizes identifying and developing our inherent strengths – the talents, skills, and natural tendencies that energize and propel us forward. This approach aligns beautifully with the core Christian belief that God equips each individual with unique gifts (Romans 12:6-8). By understanding and utilizing these strengths, we can not only potentially excel personally and professionally, but also deepen our connection with God and fulfill our purpose.

THE TRADITIONAL APPROACH: FIXING WHAT IS WRONG
In traditional personal and professional development and therapeutic settings, the primary method often revolves around identifying deficiencies and working to correct them. For example:

• • Professional development. Performance reviews typically highlight areas for improvement, setting goals to rectify these weaknesses.
  • Personal development. Self-help books and seminars often focus on overcoming fears, breaking bad habits, or correcting personality flaws.
  • Therapy and counseling. Therapists frequently work with clients to identify and resolve issues stemming from past trauma, anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns.

This approach undoubtedly has its merits. Addressing and overcoming weaknesses and issues is crucial for overall well-being and functionality. However, this method can inadvertently overshadow the strengths individuals possess, leading to a lopsided view of personal development, and leaving our strengths undeveloped and unnourished.

THE STRENGTHS-BASED APPROACH
Strengths-based training shifts the focus from fixing what is wrong to enhancing what is right. It is founded on the principle that everyone has inherent strengths and talents that, when recognized and nurtured, can lead to significant personal and professional growth. Here’s how it works:

1. Identification of strengths. The first step is to identify individual strengths. This can be done through self-assessment, feedback from others, or tools like the CliftonStrengths assessment.

2. Acknowledgment and appreciation. Once strengths are identified, the next step is to acknowledge and appreciate them. This helps in building a positive self-image and boosts confidence.

3. Leveraging strengths. The final step is to find ways to leverage these strengths in various aspects of life. This could mean aligning job roles with personal strengths, using strengths to overcome challenges, or incorporating them into personal goals and aspirations.

STRENGTHS-BASED TRAINING IN PROFESSIONAL SETTINGS
In professional settings, strengths-based training can revolutionize the way we approach work and career development. Here are some applications:

• • Team building. Understanding the strengths of team members can lead to better team dynamics. Teams can be structured in a way that each member’s strengths are utilized, leading to higher productivity and job satisfaction.
  • Leadership development. Leaders who focus on their own strengths and the strengths of their team members are often more effective. They can inspire and motivate others by recognizing and nurturing their potential.
  • Career development. Employees who are aware of their strengths can seek roles and responsibilities that align with their natural talents, leading to greater job fulfillment and career success.

Consider the story of Carla, a mid-level manager in a large corporation. Carla was always commended for her problem-solving skills but struggled with public speaking. Through a strengths-based training program, Carla discovered her top strengths were analytical thinking and relationship building. Instead of solely focusing on improving her public speaking, Carla was encouraged to leverage her analytical skills to prepare more detailed and compelling presentations and use her relationship-building strength to connect with her audience before and after her talks. Over time, Carla’s confidence grew, and she became a sought-after speaker within her company, demonstrating how focusing on strengths can lead to professional success.

STRENGTHS-BASED TRAINING IN PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
On a personal level, strengths-based training can enhance various aspects of life, from relationships to personal goals. Here’s how:

• • Improving relationships. Strengths-based training can transform how we interact with others. By understanding our own strengths, we become more aware of how we can contribute positively to our relationships. For instance, someone with a strength in empathy can better understand and support their friends and family. This heightened awareness can also help us appreciate the strengths of others, fostering mutual respect and deeper connections. Additionally, focusing on strengths can help in conflict resolution by redirecting conversations from blame and criticism to constructive discussions about how each person’s strengths can be used to resolve issues.

Take the example of Mark and Lisa, a married couple who frequently argued about household responsibilities. Through strengths-based training, they discovered that Mark excelled in organization and planning, while Lisa had strong interpersonal skills. By leveraging Mark’s organizational strength, they created a structured schedule for household chores. Meanwhile, Lisa’s strength in communication helped them establish regular check-ins to discuss any concerns. This approach not only reduced conflicts but also strengthened their relationship by allowing them to appreciate and utilize each other’s strengths.

• • Achieving personal goals. Setting goals that align with one’s strengths increases the likelihood of success and fulfillment. For example, a person with a talent for strategic thinking can break down long-term goals into manageable steps, creating a clear and effective path to achievement. Moreover, leveraging strengths can help in overcoming obstacles that might otherwise hinder progress. For instance, someone with strong communication skills can use this strength to network effectively, seek out mentors, and gain support in their personal and professional endeavors. This strengths-based approach to goal setting ensures that efforts are focused on areas where individuals are naturally inclined to excel, making the pursuit of goals more enjoyable and less stressful.

Consider Miriam, an aspiring author who struggled to find the discipline to write regularly. Through strengths-based training, she discovered that her top strengths included creativity and adaptability. Instead of forcing herself into a rigid writing schedule, Miriam used her adaptability to set flexible writing times and her creativity to develop engaging writing prompts. By aligning her goals with her strengths, Miriam was able to complete her first novel within a year, a goal she had struggled to achieve for years.

• • Enhancing well-being. Focusing on strengths leads to a more positive outlook on life, increasing overall well-being. This approach encourages individuals to engage in activities that bring them joy and fulfillment, reducing stress and enhancing mental health. For example, someone who has a strength in creativity might find satisfaction and relaxation in pursuing artistic endeavors, which can serve as a powerful outlet for stress relief and self-expression. By regularly engaging in activities that align with their strengths, individuals can build resilience and maintain a positive mindset, even in the face of challenges.

BALANCING STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES
While strengths-based training emphasizes positive attributes, it is crucial to address the misconception that this approach ignores real negative issues. Strengths-based training is not about disregarding weaknesses or problems but rather about creating a balanced approach to development. Here’s how this balance can be achieved:

• • Acknowledge weaknesses. Recognizing weaknesses is essential. Understanding areas that need improvement can help in developing strategies to manage or overcome them.
  • Use strengths to address weaknesses. Strengths can often be used to mitigate weaknesses. For instance, a person with strong problem-solving skills can use this strength to find solutions to areas where they are weak.
  • Seek support. For areas that are significantly challenging, seeking support from others who have strengths in those areas can be beneficial. This collaborative approach fosters growth and improvement.

STRENGTHS-BASED TRAINING IN CHRISTIAN SPIRITUAL FORMATION
For Christians, strengths-based training can play a significant role in spiritual formation. This approach aligns with biblical teaching that emphasize the unique gifts and talents given by God. Here’s how it can be applied:

• • Recognizing God-given gifts. Scripture teaches that each person is uniquely created with specific gifts and talents (1 Corinthians 12:4-11). Recognizing these gifts is the first step in strengths-based spiritual formation.
  • Using gifts for God’s glory. Christians are called to use their strengths to serve others and glorify God (1 Peter 4:10-11). By focusing on strengths, individuals can find ways to serve more effectively in their communities and churches.
  • Building a positive self-image. Understanding and appreciating one’s strengths can help in developing a positive self-image, rooted in the knowledge that they are fearfully and wonderfully made by God (Psalm 139:14). This positive self-image is not based on self-pride but on the recognition of God’s work in us.
  • Building on what Christ has accomplished. The New Testament emphasizes not only turning away from sin but also building on the foundation of what Christ has accomplished for us. Philippians 1:6 assures us that “… God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” This is a powerful encouragement for strengths-based spiritual formation. By focusing on the transformative work that Jesus is doing in us, Christians can grow in their strengths and use them for God’s purposes. This means actively seeking ways to develop and apply our spiritual gifts in alignment with Christ’s teachings and the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
  • Balancing strengths and weaknesses in spiritual life. Just as in personal and professional development, balancing strengths and weaknesses is crucial in spiritual formation. Acknowledging areas of sin or struggle and seeking God’s help to overcome them is essential for spiritual growth. At the same time, focusing on the strengths that God has given us allows for a more holistic and empowered Christian life.

Consider the story of Jared, a Christian who struggled with feelings of inadequacy and a sense of purposelessness. Through a church-based strengths discovery program, Jared identified his gifts of teaching and compassion. Encouraged by his pastor, Jared began leading a small Bible study group, where he used his teaching skills to delve deep into scripture and his compassion to support group members through their spiritual journeys. Over time, Jared not only grew in his faith but also helped others to grow, embodying the principle of using strengths for God’s glory.

PRACTICAL STEPS FOR IMPLEMENTING STRENGTHS-BASED TRAINING
Implementing strengths-based training, whether professionally or personally, involves several practical steps:

1. Assessment. Utilize tools like the CliftonStrengths assessment or seek feedback from trusted individuals to identify strengths.

2. Goal-setting. Set specific, achievable goals that leverage identified strengths.

3. Development plan. Create a plan to develop and enhance strengths further. This might include additional training, seeking mentorship, or practical application.

4. Reflection and adjustment. Regularly reflect on progress and make necessary adjustments. Celebrate successes and learn from challenges.

CONCLUSION
Strengths-based training offers a powerful approach to personal and professional development by focusing on what is right rather than solely on what is wrong. This balanced perspective allows individuals to grow and thrive by not ignoring the development of their inherent strengths, but instead learning to leverage them while also addressing real challenges.

For Christians, this approach aligns with the biblical understanding of God-given gifts and talents, encouraging a positive self-image, and effective service to others. By integrating strengths-based training into our lives, we can achieve a more holistic and fulfilling development journey, truly embodying the principle that what we focus on grows.

Scotty