Nosce Te Ipsum

Do you know who you are? What are you capable of? Nosce Te Ipsum is Latin for “know thyself.” Knowing your strength and weakness has never been more important. Our economy continues to be strained and labor markets are all but fertile for employment. The time has come for each and every one of us to be Doctors of Meology- The Study of Oneself. Maximize on strength and learn to manage (weakness).

quick payday loans with small commissions

Meology 101:

Materials- pencil and paper

Let’s start our introductory class of Meology with a simple question- What are you good at? List the first 5 strengths that immediately come to mind. You may find this to be a relatively simple exercise. It’s in our nature as human beings to grossly overestimate our strengths. In light of that basic Psychological principle, examine your 5 strengths and see if any can be consolidated.

Can you combine your strengths into an overarching umbrella idea? For example, if you are good with organization and goal orientation, you may find that you excel with project management. Once you have determined your strength, write it down again and circle it. We will come back to it shortly.

Take a deep breath to prepare for our next exercise. Ready? Let’s go! What are your weaknesses? As we did in the previous exercise, list the first 5 weaknesses. Do not be surprised if this exercise is more difficult than the last one. Coming up with areas of personal weakness, as difficult a process as it may be, is the most important step in personal development. Unchecked, your weakness will cannibalize your strength making you less powerful.

Do not feel discouraged! Use this exercise for self-reflection and avoid being critical. In fact, write the word critical and cross it out to remind yourself- REFLECTION ONLY. I digress… Back to weaknesses! Figure out an umbrella idea, word or phrase that describes your overall weakness. Write it down and circle it.

Now you have identified your strength and weakness. Knowing thyself is only the beginning! You are getting ready to maximize your potential by applying your gift and controlling your (Achilles hill). Everything you do should highlight and nurture your strength. Learn ways to develop your strength and do so diligently. Don’t waste your time trying to eliminate your weakness. Live with it! Keep it contained in your personal prison and only use it to your advantage.

You will find that your control over weakness will enhance your strength. You are powerful beyond your imagination!

Nosce Te Ipsum.

Follow Me @MThousandaires