In the journey towards finding your Ikigai, or your reason for being, understanding what you are naturally good at is a crucial step. This is often referred to as your vocation. Your vocation is not just about what you can do well, but also about what you can do effortlessly and joyfully. It's about recognizing your innate talents and abilities and how you can use them to serve others and yourself.
Everyone has unique strengths and talents. These are the things that you do naturally well. They could be anything from being a good listener, to being able to solve complex problems, to having a knack for creating beautiful art.
Your strengths and talents are often things that you enjoy doing and that you would continue to do even if you weren't being paid for them. They are the activities that you get lost in and that make you lose track of time.
To identify your strengths and talents, think about the compliments you often receive, or the tasks you are always asked to do because you do them well. Reflect on what activities make you feel energized and fulfilled.
Identifying what you are naturally good at can be a process of self-discovery. Here are some steps to help you in this process:
Self-reflection: Spend some time reflecting on your past experiences. What activities or tasks do you find easy and enjoyable? What skills have you developed over the years?
Feedback from others: Ask people who know you well about what they think you are good at. They can provide valuable insights that you may not have considered.
Strengths assessment: There are various tools and assessments available online that can help you identify your strengths. These assessments can provide a structured way to discover your talents.
Trial and error: Sometimes, the best way to discover what you are good at is by trying new things. You may discover hidden talents or develop new skills in the process.
Here are some exercises that can help you discover your strengths and talents:
Journaling: Write about your experiences and achievements. What were the skills or talents that helped you succeed in these situations?
Visualisation: Imagine your ideal day. What are you doing? What skills or talents are you using?
Skill audit: Make a list of all the skills you have. Which ones do you enjoy using the most? Which ones do you want to develop further?
Remember, discovering your vocation is a journey, not a destination. It's about exploring, experimenting, and evolving. As you continue to grow and learn, your strengths and talents may also change and develop. So, keep an open mind and enjoy the journey towards finding your Ikigai.