One of my neighbors shared an LDS talk with me this week that has really made me re-think my definition of “weakness”. For those that may be interested, I have shared the link to the article below.

https://www.lds.org/ensign/2015/04/it-isnt-a-sin-to-be-weak?lang=eng

Here is what resonated with me from this article:

We all have weaknesses, and we all tend to try to work on eliminating these weaknesses, on changing ourselves in order to become better. We also sometimes let these perceived weaknesses define us, limit us, and hold us back from being who we really are.

What if instead of trying to eliminate our weaknesses, we embraced them for what they were?

Think about your biggest weaknesses.  What qualities are you most unhappy about? Here is a list of some of the potential weaknesses that I could think of.  I am sure there are more as well. Take a look at the list and pick the top 3 that resonate most with you.

1) Disorganized
2) Stubborn
3) Inconsistent
4) Obnoxious
5) Emotionless
6) Shy
7) Boring
8) Unrealistic
9) Negative
10) Intimidating
13) Weak
14) Arrogant
15) Impatient

Next, look at the below list, find the same three weaknesses, and look at the traits to the right of each of your three biggest weaknesses:

1) Disorganized —> Creative
2) Inflexible —> Organized
3) Stubborn —> Dedicated
4) Inconsistent —> Flexible
5) Obnoxious —> Enthusiastic
6) Emotionless —> Calm
7) Shy —> Reflective
8) Irresponsible —> Adventurous
9) Boring —> Responsible
10) Unrealistic —> Positive
11) Negative —> Realistic
12) Intimidating —> Assertive
13) Weak —> Humble
14) Arrogant —> Self-Confident
15) Impatient —> Passionate

The three qualities to the right of your three weaknesses are all strengths.

What I learned from the article and this exercise is that hidden in your weaknesses are your strengths.  Every weakness has a corresponding strength.  Instead of trying to change your weaknesses, accept them, and leverage your associated strengths. In this way we can truly learn to love our weaknesses…because they make us who we are.