If you’re still working on your success strategy – good for you.  It takes time, hard work and dedication to reach your goals.  In our StrengthsQuest readings, we’ve discovered “Four key factors will determine your achievements in academics, career and beyond” to guide the solutions for applying talents in your life to get you to where you want to be. #YouDeserveThis

Your beliefs about your talents to achieve. Never underestimate the power of what you believe – it will directly affect your achievements. When you are confident in your beliefs and understand what you’re working toward; you’re more likely to be able to use your talents effectively.

How well you know, understand and value your talents. The more you know about your talents, the more confidence you have in building your talents.  A few years ago, when I was working in retail, I realized that I was an excellent sales person.  I loved the competition, I could effectively communicate my strategy allowing me to make my goals, and I was very driven to keep my staff motivated so we were all on the same page.  At the time, I didn’t realize the potential of this experience, but throughout my life, I’ve learned to lean on these talents to help me in many situations.

The extent to which you apply your talents through strengths. Take initiative for designing your education/career/life around your talents, this will likely produce superior results.  When I was looking for a new job in 2005, I made a list of the things I wanted to do in my job – making a difference, working in groups, leading in a professional setting, having problems that needed my thought/solutions.  And then I started looking for job.  When I realized that my talents would make me more successful and interested, I realized that I should find a job that fit these talents.

Your motivations, desires and goal-setting practices. Numerous studies identify motivation as the single most important factor in academic achievement and graduation from college.  You may be at a disadvantage in many areas in your life – but if you are motivated and dedicated, you should be able to achieve your goals.  It might not be easy, but it will be worth it.