Think about the first days, weeks, and months of a new relationship. You’re overwhelmed by the unusual and special things the other person is bringing into your life. It’s a fun and somewhat carefree time. You’re seeing all the good in the other person, and discount flaws or minor annoyances. After a while – a few more days, weeks, months – the flaws and minor annoyances become more evident and you stop noticing and being caught in wonder by the special things that were in the spotlight at first.

Why do we become blinded to the most wonderful things of those closest to us? This could be a romantic relationship, friendship, or familial relationship – it’s all the same. The new wears off and the dents and dings are all too visible.

When was the last time you walked into a room with a someone you’re often around with an intention of noticing and pointing out that person’s strengths? If you can’t remember the last time that happened, don’t feel too guilty – I’d say that most people have the same answer.

There is scientific evidence that leaders who focus on recognizing and celebrating the strengths of their teams have employees who perform at a higher level. With that fact laid out, why are so many critical taskmasters? Those people are our employers, our significant others, our peers – and *gasp* even ourselves!

Here’s a challenge for you – make a choice to head out into the world with the intention of finding strengths in people. Before you can recognize strengths, you have to know what they are. Here are two great infographics laying out both adult (blue) and adolescent (multi-color) strengths.

Understanding strengths – what they are – is one part of this challenge to you. Setting out with the intention to recognize them in the people you work and live with is second. The third part is to know your strengths. Math is not my strength, therefore, I do not concentrate on tasks that involve math. When I cannot avoid it, I employ the use of calculators. Math is a known weakness there. What are my strengths? How can I find out what my true strengths are, and how can I find out the strengths I have that I cannot see? Let’s talk. Click this link to get started.

Go- see- and report back if you can! Find strengths, celebrate them with the people in whom you find them, and then watch your entire world become more positive.