I was recently reading through a complimentary chapter of the Fire Starter sessions by Danielle La Porte.

I was fortunate enough to interview this amazing soul earlier this year. I would check it out here, especially the video.

Danielle has been on a path of discovery and learning for years. She decided long ago that she wanted to make money doing what she loves in life and being her, in her own words: “I want the “privilege of a lifetime,” as Joseph Campbell called it, “of being myself.”

Two statements really stood out for me and I want to expand on them further and get your thoughts too.

One: A strength is what you do that makes you feel strengthened.

Isn’t that an interesting way of thinking about it.

Do you feel strong writing, selling, marketing, accounting, speaking, investigating, leading teams, coaching, learning, singing, playing or dancing?

During my career I undertook many interviews. I think I became a pro at knowing what recruiters and interviewers wanted to hear. I had all the right answers in place, but I also spoke the truth.

One common question I knew would always get asked is `Natalie, what are your key strengths and weaknesses?’.

I used to get frustrated at this question even though I appreciate it is a legitimate one, because I think it prompts a bullshit answer.

Here’s why.

If you are prepared then you will list of a series of wonderful attributes you can bring to a company. You sound amazing, why wouldn’t they want to hire you.

As for weaknesses you’re hardly going to say you’re bad at anything now are you?

You’d likely turn your supposed weaknesses into a strength, that’s the way I view it and I used to say:

“I have a tendency of being impatient, but I think this is actually a useful quality as it means I am constantly in a state of action and ensuring projects are moving along.”

Now technically this is true, and yes I would get frustrated with people who tried to get in my way and hold up a project. But generally I would then work harder to motivate them as to why it was important to keep momentum.

I would aim to get their buy in on the important role they played in the project.

If you are unprepared for this question it is likely that you would stammer away trying to figure out what you really are good at.

By the way – good life lesson, you should know your strengths like the back of your hand.

Actually make a list right now at all the things you really are good at and I assure you that you will be pleasantly surprised.

Perhaps you make killer omlettes, or you can harmonize really well when singing, you are a natural connector, you write elegant prose, you make friends with ease, you’re great at giving directions, you know how to fix your friend’s computer.

Seriously these are all strengths. Now which of those actually make you feel strong?

And of those, how many apply to running your business? More than you think.

Finally how often are you actually using these strengths? Makes sense to focus on those right? Yes.

Also quit trying to strengthen your weaknesses.

Time spent strengthening what you’re already great at is far more valuable. As one wise person used to say, just ensure your weaknesses are at a level where they don’t hamper you, but don’t try to focus on being great at something that doesn’t come naturally to you.

Leave that to the people who are and hire them instead.

Two: Passion doesn’t need to be all fiery and consuming.

Genuine curiosity and sincere interest are hot coals that can warm you for a good, long time.

I know I love using the word passion, as do so many others and I think it has a tendency to be overused in the wrong context.

Especially if you haven’t found yours yet, or feel you’re not passionate as you don’t feel on fire when you’re doing things you enjoy.

That’s why this statement resonated. It’s proof that passion comes in many different shapes and forms.

Think about Italian lovers who are often dramatic and showy vs the more reserved British who are more private about their affections. Neither is less passionate, they just show it in different ways.

You will know what your passion is because it will move you in some way. You will enjoy it, feel scared by it but alive, feel calm and centered, or in the zone or just plain satisfied.

On the flipside you will know when you’re doing something you don’t want to, your senses will ensure it’s uncomfortable, dull, uninspiring or perhaps just less enjoyable.

Just make sure you’re recognizing the difference in how you feel, your energy levels and your focus.

Start doing more of the stuff that gives you energy, allows you to concentrate for ages and for time to pass by without you even knowing it because you’re engaged and consumed.

“Passion will always move you in the direction of your authentic self.”

So what will you do today to feel strengthened, engaged and energized?