IDEATION
Derived From Clifton Strengths Finder
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I'm fascinated by ideas. I like to discover the simple concepts beneath anything seemingly complex, and to connect dots with invisible lines, so to speak. My mind subconsciously seeks for connections often finding obscure connections to seemingly disparate topics, ideas, or points. I consciously try and learn from various sources of material to seek new perspectives or find unique solutions. I actively attempt to silence my own perspective, so that I can better accept others' and often deploy empathy to create a welcome space for those around me to share their view points. I've found that this enlivens my own approach.
It's a delicate balance of asking why, to understand and not to annoy or offend others, as I'm simply do it with the pursuit to build upon ideas. Ideas and understanding is what fuels me.
ACHIEVER
Derived From Clifton Strengths Finder
If ideas are my inspiration, then action is my drive. I have this constant need for achievement. This is a challenge for me as a businessman, who must conscientiously find the achievement in the abstract. Woodworking is a great relief for me. Nevertheless, every day starts at zero which keeps me distant from any notion of complacency. That doesn't stop me from taking a moment to relish and appreciate my accomplishments once I've reached them. For teams that I lead, I make it a priority to create the space to recognize achievements. It's not long before feelings of discontent or restlessness emerge, and I begin again.
This drive isn't always logical, or well accepted, and therefore I employ my communication strengths and EQ to help rally others or earn leeway to test my own ideas.
ACTIVATOR
Derived From Clifton Strengths Finder
I have an intolerance for not taking action. Years of training has forced me to analyze and plan, but I maintain a firm belief that only action is real. I have this pedantic saying that I have immense patience and zero tolerance. In this sense, I refer to my patience in the outcomes of planning and hard work and an intolerance for idleness in the process. Uncertainty, or a lack of data does not overly concern me or prohibit me from starting something new. Action is the best learning tool and , in the end, I will be judged by what I get done and not by what I've analyzed or thought.
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Relevant quote: "Evolution forged the entirety of sentient life on this planet using only one tool: the mistake."
STRATEGIC
Derived From Clifton Strengths Finder
When sorting through which is best route of action to take, I take an organized method to filter through options. I use tools, and useful visual aids to focus myself and find those tools useful in sharing my vision and strategy to those who don't comfortably rely on my unquantifiable "instinct." Where I see patterns and others see complexity, using more quantifiable means to showcase the strategy helps people see and align to the strategy. Strategic diagraming or mapping the options, the “what ifs?" and the "then what's?" helps me to see around the next corner and to evaluate the potential obstacles.
Once a strategy is derived, I act quickly. I must constantly balance my strategic skills and my activator skills to be decisive and attenuate delays. Mistakes are my lessons, not things I'm ashamed to commit.
COMMUNICATION
DeriveFrom Clifton Strengths Finder
I like to explain, to describe, to host, to speak in public, and to write. It's certainly one of my strongest inherited traits. Thank you Gram.
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Ideas can be dry, lacking vitality and they can often seem unrealistic, fallible, or daunting to accomplish. I use vivid descriptions, and craft visuals that are useful at enlivening my audience to rally behind the vision and help bring ideas to life. I understand that in order to be engaging the narrative must be inspirational. It must survive the moment, and take root in someone else's mind, their spirit, and make them more than just an audience member; a driver.
I have an affinity for the dramatic, because most of what is said is not spoken. Anything to sharpen the point.
MY APPLIED SKILLS
BUSINESSÂ DEVELOPMENT
Analyzing, selling to, and establishing channels to tap into - accelerating scale and broadening scope
LEADERSHIP
Leadership through servitude - great leaders serve their people
SALES EXECUTION
Ideas are worthless - It's all about what you deliver
