“Work smarter, not harder.” We've all heard it, but what does it mean for leadership? For leaders, working smarter often means playing to your strengths.
When we focus on what we’re inherently good at—those skills that come naturally and give us energy—we increase our performance, sustainability, and even joy.
Think of it like this: the more you align your actions with your strengths, the less effort it takes, and the greater the results. It's like finding that sweet spot where things flow more easily.
Think about something you’ve accomplished that you’re proud of. Chances are, you were operating within your strengths. Maybe it was your knack for strategic thinking, or perhaps your ability to empathise deeply with others. What was it about that achievement that felt so rewarding and energising?
Real Leadership isn’t about morphing into someone else or forcing yourself into a mould that doesn’t fit.
Instead, it’s about amplifying who you already are, unlocking your own potential and, in turn, the potential of those you lead. By focusing on your strengths, you’re able to contribute in the most authentic, impactful way—and often with less mental strain or burnout.
Florence Nightingale’s story offers a brilliant example of strength-based leadership. Known as “The Lady with the Lamp,” Florence didn’t come from a background that was naturally inclined toward nursing or caregiving. But she knew, from the depths of her being, that her calling was in healthcare. This wasn’t just a passion; it was an alignment with her strengths.
During the Crimean War, Florence was met with horrendous conditions in military hospitals, where disease and filth ran rampant. For many, this might have been a moment to feel overwhelmed or helpless. But Florence saw an opportunity to make a real difference. She didn’t try to be someone she wasn’t—she simply used her strengths in organisation, her meticulous attention to detail, and her innate compassion to create meaningful change. By focusing on her natural gifts, she reduced mortality rates from 42% to 2%. Imagine the difference that made in the lives of countless soldiers and their families.
Florence’s leadership wasn’t about doing everything perfectly or knowing all the answers. Instead, it was about using what she was naturally good at—systematic thinking combined with empathy—to bring about transformative change. Her story reminds us that Real Leadership doesn’t require being well-rounded or excellent in every area. Instead, it’s about knowing and playing to your strengths to leave a lasting, meaningful impact.
When we leverage our strengths, we don’t just work toward goals—we achieve them with greater ease, fulfillment, and resilience.
And as leaders, this approach doesn’t only benefit us; it also sets a powerful example for our teams. It shows that there’s a different way to lead, one where working smarter means being aligned with who you truly are.
So, next time you’re aiming for a goal, ask yourself: How can I bring my strengths to this challenge? When you start from this place, you’ll be amazed at how much you can accomplish—not by doing more, but by doing what you do best.
This 2-hour Strengths workshop is for teams who want to understand and get to know their strengths, to be able to perform with impact and feel energised. More effectively, they find ways to leverage what they’re great at in a really practical way.
Utilising the Strengths Profile Assessment Tool can change the way you assess, develop and leverage talent in your people.
This workshop will bring you together to enhance your team’s performance by maximising opportunities for the growth of individuals and collectively, the team.
This is not a publicly offered program so email [email protected] to book your workshop. It’s a fun and engaging alternative to your next team meeting.
Individuals can also take part in Strengths Profiling. If you want to find out more contact us.
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