Nine signs you’re using the wrong strengths at work

If you’ve ever felt drained, unmotivated, or unfulfilled in your work, it might be a sign that you are using the wrong strengths.

Being good at something doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the right fit for you. I call these strengths your ‘Reputation strengths’ – because everyone knows you’re good at them. But because they don’t light you up, they can deplete your energy and sap your motivation. Getting stuck using them too much can hinder your progress and happiness – in fact, it can even be a recipe for burnout!

As a personal strengths coach, I want to help you identify the signs that you might be relying on the wrong strengths, so that you can make good choices and create the kind of life and work you’ve been dreaming of.

How to tell if you’re using the wrong strengths

Here are nine signs that you may be using the wrong strengths – your Reputation strengths – at work:

1. You feel drained and depleted by your work:
   When your tasks and responsibilities consistently leave you feeling exhausted and lacking energy, it’s a strong indication that you might be using strengths that don’t light you up and energise you.
2. You procrastinate on tasks:
   Procrastination often occurs when we’re not excited about the work at hand. If you find yourself putting off tasks or constantly delaying them, it’s time to assess if you’re using the right strengths.
3. You don’t feel like you’re being your best self:
   Using the wrong strengths can make you feel like you’re not living up to your full potential. You may have a nagging feeling that you could be doing better, contributing more, or having more fun at work.
4. You feel like you “have to” or “should” do the work:
   Feeling obligated or pressured to perform certain tasks can indicate that you’re doing things that you’re good at, but don’t enjoy – you don’t feel eager to get to work, because you’re not using the strengths that energise you.
5. You put in minimal effort:
   When you’re not engaged with the work you’re doing and the strengths you’re using, you might find yourself just going through the motions, doing the bare minimum to get by.
6. You wish you were doing something, ANYTHING else!
   Daydreaming about doing other tasks or jobs is a clear sign that you are not fully engaged in your current role, and your strengths may be better suited elsewhere.
7. You resent having to do the task:
   Resentment can build up when we’re consistently forced to use strengths that don’t align with our true passions and abilities.
8. Time drags by really slowly when you’re doing the work:
   When you’re engaged in tasks that align with your strengths, time seems to fly by, but using the wrong strengths can make minutes feel like hours.
9. You feel disengaged and demotivated:
   A lack of enthusiasm and motivation can indicate that you’re not tapping into your true Genius strengths, which are vital for sustaining your productivity and enjoyment.

Uh-oh, I think I’m using the wrong strengths!

If you recognise a couple of the signs from the list, don’t despair. You can turn this around! By identifying your Genius strengths, you can take steps to shift your focus and create a more fulfilling life and work experience.

And you don’t necessarily have to change your entire career. Even small adjustments can have a significant impact.

As a personal strengths coach, I can help you uncover your unique strengths and develop strategies to align your work with your passion. By doing so, you’ll not only achieve stunning results but also experience greater joy and fulfillment in your professional life.

But what if I love my job?

There might be parts of your work that you absolutely love, and can’t wait to do. That’s great! Those things are probably calling on your Genius strengths – the things you’re great at and that light you up when you do them.

Want to know how to start using the right strengths?

If any of the signs mentioned above resonate with you or if you’re struggling to find your true Genius strengths, I invite you to book a complimentary discovery call with me. Together, we’ll explore your strengths and create a plan to unlock the special brand of magic you bring to the world, leading you towards the life and work you’ve been dreaming of. Don’t let the wrong strengths hold you back – take the first step towards a brighter future today!