6 Ways to Grow Your God-Given Talents – for Yourself and for Others

What are your strengths? What are you really good at? Have people praised you when you’ve used a particular skill? What can you do easily that others find challenging?

If you have trouble answering these questions, take time this week to jot down a list of your God-given gifts. Pretend you are embarking on a path to self-discovery. Look at yourself through fresh, new lenses. With a different vision, you may be surprised how many skills light up your list. Circle two or three that spark warm, happy thoughts.

“Your talent is God’s gift to you. What you do with it is your gift back to God.”

— Leo Buscaglia

Now pick one interest or natural talent to begin burnishing this year. Acknowledge that you don’t know everything and that you are open to receive revelations. The following suggestions may motivate you to begin your journey and nurture your greatness.

Turn Within

Meditation can support every aspect of your being. Scheduling time in deep contemplation enables you to release negative energy and supports the body, mind, and spirit connection. Have you noticed when you spend quiet, me-time and focus on your breath, you tend to feel refreshed? Committing to time alone opens you up to unlimited possibilities.

Epiphanies often occur in our relaxed states. Also, consider inviting nature to accompany you during your sacred time. Each experience will ignite something new and unexpected. When I return from my walks in the great outdoors, I always feel renewed and inspired.

Enroll in a Class

When you commit to lifelong learning, you put yourself in a position to grow exponentially. Begin by taking classes in your area of interest. Photography. Woodcarving. Public speaking. Millinery. App development. Not only will you gain valuable tools from experts in the field, you may meet others who share your interests.

Establish the mindset of a beginner. If you’re not quite sure which of your many skills you want to develop, registering for a variety of classes that pique your interests can help you determine what subject or niche you want to explore. Check listings at your community college, park district, specialized retailers, public library and online offerings.

Summon a Team of Supporters

I always say we never get where we’re going without the support of others. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Who can you call to bless your dreams? Reach out to friends and relatives you can trust, and share your intentions.

Conversely, offer to support others who are in the process of building their skill sets. Sometimes, by assisting others, our own talents are revealed. Remain open to new perspectives. Consider enlisting a prayer partner and meet regularly to encourage each other. Like-minded people can help make our journey fresh and exciting.

Volunteer for a Cause

Participating in community service activities is a great way to showcase your brilliance. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to discover more about your talents. When you give your time and talents, you gain so much more in return. Mentoring and tutoring are forms of giving back with multiple benefits.

Being of service to others adds meaning and purpose to your life. And while you are elevating someone else’s life, the greatest reward will be your own satisfaction. Illuminate your experience and make it available to your community. But be willing to welcome the unexpected. Remember: You are a work in progress.

Take Risks

Stepping outside your comfort zone is required for personal growth. Approach your goal from the eyes of a beginner. Taking risks helps you discover what you’re made of. For example, if you’ve never written a book but want to, write a memoir that serves as a family legacy.

Allow the novice within to begin. Freeze your fears, pick up a pen and tablet, and write your opening paragraph. This is your motivator. The first few lines will provide you with the motivation you need to continue. Once you get going, you won’t be able to stop. Watch your confidence build with every page. Soon your first draft will be complete.

Don’t be afraid to take risks. Know that you can break down seemingly insurmountable tasks into small, manageable goals, and then work your way through them.

Apply for a Part-Time Position

If you have been thinking about pursuing part-time employment, consider looking for a job that not only uses your skills and talents, but also nourishes your passions. Growing your gifts can strategically position you for exciting opportunities. Become a self-advocate! Begin researching the kinds of jobs that will complement and expand your skill set.

Grab a copy of of What Color is Your Parachute by Richard Nelson Bolles. This self-help book has been hailed as one of the best-selling job-hunting books in the world. It’s an interesting resource that’s been in print since 1970 and is filled with helpful tips that focus on meaningful work and career success.

Your part-time job may open doors for more attractive opportunities and help you feel more confident about your unique skills.

You’re on a new path traveling in a new way. Grow your God-given gifts by awakening your greatness. In seeking your best vision, remain open and curious. Explore more of you.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

In what ways have you developed your unique talents? Have you ever taken on new ventures that ultimately strengthened your abilities?