Tools For Self-Discovery

7.2 Discovering Your Strengths and Talents

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Before you can decide what to do, you must understand what you do well. Strengths are the raw material of success. When you build on them, work feels natural, energizing, even joyful. When you ignore them, work feels like endless uphill struggle.

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CliftonStrengths (StrengthsFinder 2.0)

One of the most widely used tools in the world of business and education. This paid assessment (around $20 for the basic version) identifies your top “themes of talent” — qualities like Strategic, Achiever, Relator, Learner. It doesn’t just list them; it explains how to use them.

• Why it matters: It reframes weaknesses. Instead of worrying about what you lack, it pushes you to maximize what you already have.

• Best for: Anyone who wants language for what they’re naturally good at.

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High5 Test (Free)

A free alternative inspired by CliftonStrengths. It highlights five key strengths and provides practical suggestions for how to apply them.

• Why it matters: It removes the financial barrier for young people.

• Best for: Students, entry-level workers, or anyone taking their first steps in self-discovery.

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The Lesson

Strengths are not skills. Skills can be taught. Strengths are patterns of thought and behavior that come naturally. If you understand your strengths early, you can build skills on top of them — and design a career that plays to your natural wiring.

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