How to Use Your Talents to Help Others

When you say it out loud, it sounds completely reasonable “to share your gifts or talents with the world”. However, it’s not that simple to learn how to use your talents to help others or bring them enjoyment, or at least in the past it didn’t feel that way for me. I love to dance and for some reason people find joy watching me dance. Whenever poked and prodded to get out and “do my thing” in the center of the dance floor, I was extremely reluctant. It wasn’t because I was embarrassed or too shy, I seem to lack that gene in my body (sorry family). My reason was I didn’t want to make it about me.

Having humility and putting my team first are core principles that I live and coach by when it comes to leadership. The idea of being selfish and putting the spotlight on me was ultimately what I was trying to avoid. After many conversations it became apparent. I was being selfish by not sharing one of my gifts with the world. “The road to hell is paved with good intentions” immediately came to mind. It’s not that dramatic, but in reality the world wants to see your best. Here are 3 reasons to use your talents for the betterment of others.

Inspire others to do the same

Watching someone do something they are uniquely gifted at or truly enjoy is amazing. Think of how the world changed because Martin Luther King shared his dream, Beethoven shared his love of music and Steve Jobs his ability to think differently. Our talents and gifts are meant to be shared with others. If someone sees you sharing your gift or using your god-given talents, then they may choose to do the same, creating a domino effect of positive change.

Better relationships, new and old

How do you use your talents to make others happy? By sharing your gifts, of course, because sharing your gifts means sharing a deep part of you. It’s more than just surface, superficial level sharing. You are more than “Bob the accountant”, and instead show the world that you are “Bob the guy that is insane on the drums”. It opens up the opportunity to find a like minded group of people that you can bond with and truly relate to. It’s also certainly more exciting for your buddies to talk about the drum solo you played versus a spreadsheet created at work (no offense accountants).

Leads to living your best life

Think of your gifts as using your strengths. Studies have shown remarkable improvement when people utilize their strengths including a boost in self-confidence, increased energy and overall improved health and wellness. I believe greatly in having a growth mindset and improving our weaknesses. However, studies show the most effective way to do that is to focus on our strengths, and use our talents first rather than our weaknesses.

Lastly, it is fun showing the world your gifts and we all need more fun in our life! It has taken me a long time to understand that keeping these gifts hidden from the world is selfish. Choose to share your talents and empower others to do the same. It will help make the world a better place, which is never a bad idea.