Talent Tuesday: Positivity

What do we mean by Positivity? 

The Clifton StrengthsFinder results describe this talent theme as follows; “You are generous with praise, quick to smile, and always on the lookout for the positive in the situation. Some call you lighthearted. Others just wish that their glass were as full as yours seems to be. But either way, people want to be around you. Their world looks better around you because your enthusiasm is contagious. Lacking your energy and optimism, some find their world drab with repetition or, worse, heavy with pressure. You seem to find a way to lighten their spirit. You inject drama into every project. You celebrate every achievement. You find ways to make everything more exciting and more vital. Some cynics may reject your energy, but you are rarely dragged down. Your Positivity won’t allow it. Somehow you can’t quite escape your conviction that it is good to be alive, that work can be fun, and that no matter what the setbacks, one must never lose one’s sense of humor.”

If the above description describes you, be sure to read below for career tips and tricks tailored to your strengths!

People who are especially talented in the Positivity theme direct their energy to help others see that there is always a silver lining.

Career Search Tips for Positivity Talents:

  • You tend to be more enthusiastic and energetic than most people. When others become discouraged or are reluctant to take risks, your attitude will provide the impetus to keep them moving.
  • Deliberately help others see the things that are going well for them. You can keep their eyes on the positive.
  • Because people will rely on you to help them rise above their daily frustrations, arm yourself with good stories, jokes, and sayings. Never underestimate the effect that you can have on people.
  • Increase the recognition you give to others. Try to tailor it to each person’s need.
  • Explain that your enthusiasm is not simple naiveté. You know that bad things can happen; you simply prefer to focus on the good things. Pessimists might superficially seem wiser; they might even sometimes be right – but they are rarely happy

Below is a video created by the Gallup Strengths Center that goes into more detail about the Positivity Talent Theme and how it can help you on your path to success!

By Rachel Linehan
Rachel Linehan CareerEdge Manager