The Gift

…i have the gift of gab. Probably what makes me a very good and effective pubic speaker. This is one skill I have that allowed me the job that I’m doing now, and the future that I have in public speaking. One skill is all it took. I didn’t realize that my mouth can lead to so many opportunities, but it does and I see it in so many people. I’m not good at everything, but I understand more of what I am good at and really focus on enhancing those skills and making them better.  

I don’t mind speaking in front of thousands or a few people. Some would rather die, than speak in front of people. It’s cool, because each of us came from the same cloth but we are all different pieces of that cloth. Different shapes and designs; sizes and personalities; talents and skills. Our diversity drives our success.  

  

I always got in trouble for talking in school. Got yelled at by people, mocked by friends, and praised by many at how easily I can strike up a conversation. So, think about YOU in this Part 2. Think about those kinds of special talents you have. Write them down.  

Have you ever read the book, or heard the term “Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff? I got the book as a birthday present from my friends Rick and Suzanne. It’s a great book and everyone needs one. Anyhow, think about that term, and despite its direction to not worry. My recommendation to you is to SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF!!  

Think about those little things you do in life that you are proud of, praised by parents, teachers other people. Think about those specific skills and things that you are good at.  Big or small.  

Brag about it

…you deserve it, because if you are reading this post, then you just made the first and most difficult step in making the right choices for careers and/or college. No matter your situation, your life, lifestyle, finances…etc., you are eligible and have the God-given right to be the best part of you.  

Now that you’ve successfully completed PART 1: WHAT DO YOU ENJOY IN LIFE THAT YOU CAN GET PAID FOR IN THE FUTURE?.  The 2nd step of this series is now looking at the skills and talents that you all have.  This next step will take you closer to choosing careers that fit you so well & will make you financially and professionally successful!  

President Barack Obama said during an education speech that “Every single one of you has something that you’re good at. Every single one of you has something to offer.” http://bit.ly/3dK3oV  

You all have skills. No matter what they are. You have so many skills,t hat you won’t be able to know them all right away. But as you approach different experiences, you begin to understand what you are good at, and what you are not good at.  

Focus on what you are good at for now. You can go back to those skills you need to attain later on. It is your job to figure out what your good at, but here’s how I can help:

Think about those skills that you have. Don’t relate these skills to anything specific but be open-minded and think outside that box.  

Do not tie this to a specific job or career, think about your skills and talents in general because that will help you to draw your own pathway and start your journey to professional success, financial awesomeness and personal fulfillment!  

What are you good at:

Think about those things you do at school, at home or work and even with your friends.  

***This can be difficult. You ALL have many skills and talents but may not realize them quite yet at your age. You will realize so many more skills and talents as you advance in whatever you set out to do. The skills and talents are important factors in you becoming an expert in something.  

***Realizing your skills and talents will give you more opportunities to travel, make great money and actually liking your job.  

Think about your whole week:

Pick a day that was very productive for you. A day where you got a lot done, and that as you look back on it, you are proud of yourself. Think about that day and why it was so productive. Was there something that you did, to make something go right, or help people, or  

Next point out the accomplishments or neat things you did that day.  

Then think about how and why you were able to accomplish this. Even the smallest task. What were the skills, or talents that helped you?    

WRITE THEM DOWN!  

What have you heard?

Has mom, dad or even a teacher said, “You know, you talk a lot?” Or, “You really like to argue your side, don’t you?” I’ve heard and even said it to so many people who these are the types of skills that make the best lawyers, salespeople and business owners and what many say is the reason for their success.  

What are you good at in school? Think about things in class that you like or get good grades at, activities that your involved in and what kinds of things do you always happen to do in these activities.  

Maybe you are always the designer on the computer, making the fliers or invites, doing the artistic stuff. Why? Why do you always do these things? You’re good at it right?  

Maybe you’re always the organizer, the team captain, the one that leads. Why? Why do people listen to you or look to you as the team leader? There are certain skills you have that are the reason. Think about those.

WRITE THEM DOWN!

   

You all have so much going on, and writing this stuff down will save you a lot of unnecessary trouble and stress. Show your notes to someone if you need advice.  

 Please respond to this post and tell me what you think.  Also, don’t forget to visit www.bls.gov for more info on career options and definitions.  

My Success is Your Success,  

Keith Lipke  

   

Keith Lipke is a careers and college recruiter, coach, mentor and blogger at     The Hope Chest. His passion is to educate, inspire, and give hope to young people who need it upon their search for the right career and college.