My Clifton Strengths

February 13, 2025

Several months ago I took the Clifton Strengths Assessment as part of a different course. I thought I would share here, why each of these qualities is a strength to me and recent situations in which I used these strengths.

1. Empathy - I pick up on feelings and notice changes in reactions. This allows me to anticipate others' needs. I notice people who are excluded and seek to welcome them. Other people feel safe sharing their struggles with me.

Example - I sensed that one of the people I worked with was feeling overwhelmed, so I approached her and mentioned this sense. She admitted it and I told her I wanted to take something off her plate and asked her to choose something for me to help with.

2. Developer - I love helping others. I can't ignore the potential in each person, and I want to acknowledge and celebrate them. Another aspect of my abilities as a developer is that I’m very good at simplifying complex ideas so that people can grasp things, and I love to give credit where it is due.

Example - Math is difficult for me. After countless hours trying to grasp a concept, I finally understood it. Then I spent countless more hours creating a visual diagram that would aid others in hopefully coming to understand this concept an easier manner than what I went through.

3. Learner - I love learning. I am always looking for something new to learn. Understanding how to acquire information and apply it comes naturally to me. I am a skilled teacher because of my experience and enthusiasm for learning.

Example - I recently gave a speech in church and framed a familiar concept in a way that several people told me gave them new understanding of it.

4. Positivity - I am a generally optimistic person who encourages others with my contagious energy. People rely on me to help them deal with frustrating experiences or difficult emotions. I see past problems to possible solutions. I am humorous, and a good storyteller who sets a positive tone for others.

Example - In a recent leadership meeting, one of the attendees expressed concern and frustration that she was not achieving her desired outcome. I immediately knew how to frame the current outcome as a positive thing and in the process allowed her to gain more empathy for her group members, and release some of her anxiety.

5. Adaptability - I thrive on change and being in the moment. I easily manage the stress that comes from unexpected happenings. I am great at changing plans to adjust to changing circumstances. I get along with nearly everyone because I allow and encourage others to be themselves and they feel safe in my presence.

Example - During a recent meeting I discovered there had been a miscommunication and therefore a change of plans. Though I was internally disappointed to be unable to implement what I had been planning, I was outwardly supportive and reassuring that we would adapt as needed. I was thanked for my flexibility and patience.