Three Tips to Stop Walking and Start Flying

Every morning as I sit on my patio to enjoy quiet time, I’m treated to an amazing show of creation.  From gophers performing acrobats on puny branches to an occasional coyote, there’s always activity on the little mountain behind my place.

One of my favorite performers are quail. I just love seeing them parade across the rocky terrain in a single file line so intently. But it wasn’t until recently that I realized I’ve never seen them fly. Not because they can’t – they just don’t. Although they get around pretty fast on foot, I can’t help but to wonder why they don’t use the tools they’ve been given to go further, faster?

My question to you: Are you using the tools you’ve been given? Or are you walking when you could be flying?

We’ve all been blessed with what I call your T.A.P.E. – talents, abilities, passions and experiences. Collectively, it’s what sets you apart from the other seven billion people on the planet. It’s also what gives you your wings – your unique tools for greatness.

But discovering and using your wings are up to you. Here are three tips to help you get off the ground:

1. Instead of comparing yourself to the people around you, figure out what you’re bringing to the table that others lack. It could be a specific talent or skill, a valuable personality trait, or a unique perspective. Don’t fear being different. There’s value in diversity of thought and style.
2. As much as possible, tailor your work to your strengths. When you invest unnecessary energy in perfecting your weaknesses, your capabilities in other areas are often diminished. No one is good at everything. Team up with people who are strong where you’re weak and you’ll all fly higher together.
3. Become an expert at something. Being a Jack (or Jill) of all trades and a master of none just isn’t as valuable as it used to be. We’re shifting from a labor-based to a knowledge-based marketplace and have the technology to share our smarts more broadly than ever. Planting your flag as an expert in a valuable niche will allow you thrive in any economic climate by creating additional income for yourself.

Are you so focused on what you don’t have that you’re ignoring the advantages you already possess? If so, make a decision to stop right now.

You’ve settled for being a bird on the ground using your legs to get around for far too long. Start using your wings and soar, my friend!