Strengths vs. Skills: Are You Leading from Your True Strengths? | Tessa Kampen

Just because you’re good at something doesn’t mean it’s the right thing for you. In this episode, We explore the difference between strengths, gifts, and competencies, and how they impact leadership. Learn how to lean into your true strengths, avoid burnout, and build a strengths-based culture that actually lasts.

 

Have you ever felt drained at work, even though you're good at what you do? Or wondered why a job that once energized you now feels exhausting? You’re not alone. Many new managers and experienced leaders alike struggle with distinguishing between what they excel at and what truly fuels them.

In this episode, we explore:

• The difference between strengths, gifts, and competencies, and why knowing this can change how you lead.
• How to recognize when your “strength” is actually just a skill you’ve built over time.
• What to do when you feel obligated to stay in a role because it's needed, even if it drains you.

 

I also share a real-life example from a listener who is great at her job but finds it emotionally exhausting. We discuss whether finding fulfillment outside of work can be enough to offset frustration in a draining role.

As a leader, it’s your job to help your team align their strengths with their responsibilities while balancing the demands of the business. But that’s easier said than done. How do you build a strengths-based culture that doesn’t fade when the day-to-day demands pile up? That’s what we’ll be tackling in the next episode with my guest, Tessa Kampen.

Key Takeaways:

• Just because you're good at something doesn’t mean you should be doing it.
• Strengths are what energize you, gifts and competencies are just skills you’ve developed.
• Leaders must be intentional about building a strengths-based culture that lasts beyond a workshop.

 

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Guest & Additional Links:

📌 Connect with Tessa Kampen on Linkedin, or on her website