"Everyone is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid." Albert Einstein
"What's Your Superpower?" she asks…
"I'm sorry, what?" I replied, taken aback. I stood in silence, processing the question. Have you ever been hit with a question so out of left field that it left you reeling? That’s how I felt…
"What is your superpower?" she asked again, more insistently this time.
Then, turning the tables, I asked, "What about you? What's your superpower?"
Without hesitation, and with a confidence that suggested she had given this answer many times before, she responded, "I empower others to embrace their power." What an impactful way to introduce yourself.
Let me paint this scene: I’m hanging out in the backyard of an Airbnb dubbed 'The Peace Teepee', attending a network event hosted by a mastermind I am a pat of. You’d think I’d be in my element. But, all I could think about is: do I even have a superpower? What is my freaking superpower.
Maybe I’d been too humble or hadn't done enough introspection. Whatever the reason, it was clear I hadn’t fully embraced mine. Most of us don’t even recognize the superpowers we have. It’s time you change that!
That night was a wake-up call. If I don’t know my superpower, how in the world going to use it? Newsflash: I won't. And I was selling myself short.
Your playbook to freedom is going to hit a whole other level when you harness your inner superhero. So, if you're sitting there thinking: How do I even start to find this superpower? Relax, I got you: after all I had to work through this on my own so steal the plays from me!
Here's a breakdown to find your superpower:
Find your Purpose (you might already know). I talk about this almost every week. Writing your Eulogy is a great way to make sure you are aligned with your purpose.
Reflect on past success and what comes easy to you. Think about your most successful moments. What strength did you utilize the most? There's a clue there, your superpower should come naturally!
Try new things. This life is a collection of experiences. Humans like to get comfortable in our routine, you need to break out. As you try new things you will realize what comes naturally to you and what doesnt. Remember open minds open doors!
Embrace your failures. Remember that time you fell flat on your face, or made of fool of yourself in front of the whole room??? Good! What pulled you back up? That resilience, that’s power right there!!
Ask others. This seems super obvious, but sometimes we miss the forest for the trees. Go ask your closest friends, family or your colleagues what they think your superpower is. What they say might not be your superpower, but it's good to have the perspective because sometimes other see what we can’t!
It’s not just about identifying that superpower its about using it. Once you've got it, channel it. Use it to pave your way. Build your empire. Craft your PlaybookToFreedom.
Using your superpower:
Acknowledge and recognize your power. Claim your power without modesty and shame. This is often the hardest for many of us, but it’s crucial. There is a fine line between ego and staying humble, but walk the line!
Find your tribe. Surround yourself with the right people who recognize appreciate and encourage you! They will keep you grounded and push you to be better. Remember you are going to be like the people you associate with the most!
Challenge yourself. Start using your power instead of holding it inside or stepping back.
Keep Learning. Continuous education is important in refining and expanding your powers. Attend workshops, read and get a mentor!
Teach others. The best way to truly master something is to teach it to others. Share your knowledge and experience and you will not only help others you will find true happiness.
By integrating these steps, you will amplify your impact and you'll also live a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life. Suit up and let the world see what you have inside you! Remember, knowledge is potential power, but execution is the game. Embrace it, flex it, and watch the magic happen.
So, to everyone reading this: What’s YOUR superpower? Let’s lift each other up and celebrate those unique strengths. This is a key part to your playbook to freedom!