Sunbeam!

Finding something you’re good at is priceless.  It instantly becomes a constant resource for the quality of your self-esteem.  More time should be dedicated towards finding at least one thing that makes you shine.  No matter how miniscule the little talent may be, you should never shy away from that beaming light.

Recently, I was told there was only one thing I do that lit me up.  Just one.  I was taken aback at this acknowledgement.  Really?  Only one thing lights me up?  Either that person is blind, or I have a seriously overinflated opinion of myself.  I know beyond a shadow of a doubt of at least ten things I do that I’m not only good at, but it lights me up.

Over the years there have been several times I’ve lost sight of the things I’m good at.  Life kicks you in the ovaries/nuts and self-pity and an affinity for self-deprecation create blindness when trying to see what we’re worth.  It’s a hard fight sometimes to refocus on what makes us tick and what flips our lids.  But, when we rediscover those individual facets of our make-up it makes dealing with those blows a lot more manageable. 

Talent takes so many different shapes.  We tend to instantly associate talent with performing arts or creativity.  I think a more acute perspective on things you’re good at is more appropriate.  We’re not all Beyoncé or Van Gogh.  We’re not all Martha Stewart or Kristin Chenoweth.  We are all however, capable and full of potential in our own little ways.

My mother was a gifted singer.  Whenever she was able to participate in church choirs or even karaoke, she lit the room.  I don’t think I’ve ever sat down and described my mother as a singer.  I remember my mother’s talent for love.  She was an unconditional nurturer and reveled in the rewards of motherhood.  She had such passion for children and had an innate capacity to love all of them, despite the challenges posed.

Take some time this week to verbally identify what you’re particularly good at doing.  Whether it’s being good with a budget or having a heightened awareness of cleanliness, those are talents.  Don’t dismiss things you do that make you happy because of the quality of the product.  If you do something well and it fulfills you in even a silly little way, celebrate it and do it often! 

Just to help you get your ball rolling:

I’m good at matching color schemes from memory.  No need for paint chips or swatches.  If I see it in a store, I’ll instantly know if it’ll work in a room or not.

(Completely worthless…I will never be paid for that.  But it keeps me from having to return to the store to return something or exchange it.  That saves me time and money!)