What Am I Good At? A Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Your Dream Career
So, is this career change number… what, five? Ten? Or are you just starting out and feeling a little lost in the world of possibilities? Either way, that nagging question, “What am I good at?” seems to be your constant companion.
But hey, take a deep breath because you’re in the right place. Whether you’re a seasoned career hopper or a newbie looking for direction, we’ve got your back.
In this guide, we have collected the good stuff. It will help you finally find your calling and a list of things you are good at. Get a pen and paper, and get ready to work.
And here’s the best part: Blinkist has an entire collection dedicated to helping you figure it all out: Which Career is Right for You?
It’s packed with insights from experts, real-life stories of career transformations, and practical advice to help you find your sweet spot and what you are good at.
Get a preview:
A Guide to Find What You Are Good at
“Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life?”: Yes, that’s what they are saying. But while it might sound a bit cheesy, there’s some serious truth to it.
Figuring out what you’re good at isn’t just about landing a job; it’s about finding your sweet spot – that place where your talents, passions, and values intersect.
And hey, who wouldn’t want to ditch the Sunday night dread and start looking forward to Mondays? (Okay, maybe not looking forward to them, but you get the idea.)
So, let’s dive in and start exploring what you are good at and set you on the path to a career you love.
“What Am I Good At?”
In this section, we’ll offer you quick reads on various topics, each followed by a challenging question designed to reflect and unearth your potential. But don’t overthink your answers—sometimes, your instincts are your best guide.
Finding Your Element by Keith Robinson
This book is your personal cheerleading squad, all about uncovering those passions and talents that make you feel truly alive. Robinson reminds us that our education system doesn’t always nurture our unique gifts, but it’s never too late to reconnect with those natural abilities.
Finding Your Element
- 22 min reading time
- audio version available
Question 1: What lights you up?
Think back to those moments when you were entirely in the zone, totally absorbed in what you were doing. What were you up to?
Were you leading a group project, brainstorming creative ideas, or maybe even just organizing your sock drawer with laser focus? Those activities that make you feel like you’re in your element are often a clue to your hidden superpowers.
Personality by Daniel Nettle
Ever wondered why you’re a night owl while your bestie is up at the crack of dawn? This book breaks down the science behind personality traits, showing you how nature and nurture team up to make you, well, you. Spoiler alert: your personality isn’t set in stone!
Personality
- 18 min reading time
- audio version available
Question 2: What are your natural tendencies?
Are you more of a lone wolf who recharges by being alone, or a social butterfly who thrives on being around others? Do you love planning every detail, or are you the go-with-the-flow type? Figuring out your natural tendencies is like finding the right outfit – it just feels right when it fits.
Do What You Are by Paul D. Tieger, Barbara Barron & Kelly Tieger
Think of this book as your career matchmaker. It dives into the world of personality types, showing you how understanding your unique wiring can lead you straight to your dream job. It’s like having a compass that points you towards work that feels like play.
Do What You Are
- 18 min reading time
- audio version available
Question 3: What makes you tick?
Are you a big-picture visionary or a detail-oriented master? Do you love diving into data and crunching numbers, or do you prefer working with people and building relationships? Write it down.
Leadershift by John C. Maxwell
Don’t let the title fool you – this book isn’t just for those with fancy job titles. Even if you’re not the CEO (yet!), this book is packed with insights on maximizing your potential and making a real impact. It’s like a crash course in personal leadership.
Leadershift
- 20 min reading time
- audio version available
Question 4: What kind of impact do you want to make?
What legacy do you want to leave behind? Do you want to inspire others, create something meaningful, or solve a pressing problem? This question is your North Star, guiding you toward a career that truly matters to you.
The Road Back to You by Ian Morgan Cron and Suzanne Stabile
Ever heard of the Enneagram? It’s like a personality test on steroids, diving deep into your motivations, fears, and desires. This book will direct you to your Enneagram type and help you understand how it shapes your strengths and weaknesses.
The Road Back to You
- 18 min reading time
- audio version available
Question 5: What are your superpowers (and your kryptonite)?
What are you naturally good at? What comes easily to you? On the flip side, what are your biggest challenges or blind spots? Knowing both your strengths and weaknesses is key to finding a career that plays to your advantage and helps you grow.
If you’re interested in gaining an even more in-depth understanding of your personality, take the free Enneagram test at https://enneagramtest.com.
And once you know your type, check out Blinkist’s curated book collections for each type:
For example, if you’re an Enneagram Type 1 (The Reformer), you’ll find a collection of titles on love and happiness tailored specifically to your personality. This can give you even more clarity on what makes you tick and how to leverage your strengths.
Surrounded by Idiots by Thomas Erikson
Hey, let’s face it: we’ve all met people who seem to speak different “languages.” This amazing book delves into four unique communication styles, empowering you to truly understand why people behave the way they do.
It also provides valuable insights on how to form great relationships with others and evaluate how good you are at connecting with diverse personalities.
Surrounded by Idiots
- 23 min reading time
- audio version available
Question 6: How do you communicate best?
Are you a straight-shooter who gets to the point, or do you prefer a more collaborative approach? Do you thrive in fast-paced environments, or do you need time to process information? Understanding your communication style can help you find a work environment where you feel understood and valued.
The Personality Brokers by Merve Emre
So, after taking personality tests, how often were you thinking, “Who came up with this stuff?” The Personality Brokers dive into the fascinating and sometimes controversial history of personality testing, including the famous Myers-Briggs Type Indicator.
The Personality Brokers
- 12 min reading time
- audio version available
Question 7: What are your personality test results?
What were your Myers-Briggs or any other personality test results? Did they resonate with you, or did they feel a bit off? Reflecting on your personality test results can offer clues about your preferences, strengths, and potential career paths.
Are you a sucker for personality tests?
If you’re fascinated by personality tests (and who isn’t?), check out this Blinkist Magazine article: Do Personality Tests Limit Personal Growth?
Using bestselling author Susan Cain’s example, you’ll learn how personality tests can change your whole life. This thought-provoking read explores the power (and potential pitfalls) of these popular tools.
Personality Is Your Greatest Asset (featuring Stefano Domenicali)
In this Blinkist Original episode, Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali shares how he used his personality to race to the top. He spills the beans on how authenticity, resilience, and passion can be your secret weapons in the workplace.
Question 8: What are your “hidden superpowers?”
Think beyond your resume and job titles. What unique qualities or skills do you possess that might not be obvious at first glance? Maybe you’re a natural problem-solver, a skilled negotiator, or a gifted storyteller. Recognizing these hidden superpowers can open up new career possibilities.
Changing Your Career (featuring guest Zainab Salbi)
In this Blinkist Original episode, humanitarian and media entrepreneur Zainab Salbi shares her inspiring story of career reinvention. She offers valuable insights for anyone considering a career change, emphasizing the importance of courage, resilience, and following your heart.
Question 9: What’s your dream career (even if it seems crazy)?
Forget about practicality for a moment. If you could do anything, what would it be? What kind of work would make you feel truly fulfilled? Don’t censor yourself here – your wildest dreams might hold the key to your ideal career path.
Me, Myself and Us by Brian R. Little
Me, Myself and Us by Brian R. Little explores personality and how our traits can be malleable. It provides insights and practical strategies for personal growth while acknowledging nature and nurture’s role in shaping who we are.
Me, Myself and Us
- 15 min reading time
- audio version available
Question 10: Write down 3 things about your personality
Share a time when you stepped outside your usual role and discovered a hidden talent, a newfound passion, or a different side of your personality. What did this experience teach you about your true potential?
The Road to Reinvention by Josh Linkner
The Road to Reinvention by Josh Linkner is a guide for disrupting standard business models and revitalizing companies. It offers practical advice on innovating, adapting, and creating a culture that encourages creative thinking and experimentation.
The Road to Reinvention
- 13 min reading time
- audio version available
Question 11: Would you want to start over?
What if you could ditch the ordinary and build a work life that truly reflects your passions? What would that look like? Let your imagination run wild – who knows what incredible possibilities are waiting for you!
Your Final Results for What You Are Good At
Alright, you’ve been soul-searching, diving into personality quizzes, and uncovering your hidden talents. Now what? It’s time to turn all that juicy self-discovery into a roadmap for your dream career!
Think of this as your personalized quest – you’re the hero, and the prize is a job that makes you jump out of bed each morning (okay, maybe not jump, but you’ll at least be excited to get there).
And here’s your action plan:
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Reflection Time: Grab your favorite beverage (coffee, tea, or maybe something stronger if you’re feeling bold), kick back, and review your answers to the questions. What patterns popped up? What got you really excited?
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Superpower Squad: Based on your deep dive into all things you, identify your top 3 superpowers. These are the skills and traits that make you, well, YOU-nique. Are you a creative genius, a persuasive wordsmith, a tech whiz, or a master organizer? Own those superpowers!
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Explore Your Options: Now, let’s go on a quest to find the career kingdom that matches your superpowers. Hit up job boards, stalk LinkedIn (in a non-creepy way), and chat with people in fields that spark your interest. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box – your dream job might be lurking in an industry you haven’t even considered.
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Work Your Vision Board: Let’s get crafty! Create a vision board (either digitally or with old magazines and glitter glue) that embodies your ideal career. Include images, quotes, and anything else that gets your imagination flowing.
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Set Goals: Time to get strategic! Set some SMART goals that’ll guide you toward your dream career. Make sure they’re specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint.
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Be Adventurous: Now comes the fun part: taking action! Network like a pro, learn some new skills, or volunteer to gain experience. Step out of your comfort zone and explore the unknown – you never know what amazing opportunities await!
- Embrace the Unexpected: Your career path isn’t a straight line – it’s more like a thrilling roller coaster ride. Be open to unexpected detours and embrace the twists and turns along the way. Remember, change is the spice of life (and your career).
Pro-Tip: If you need a trusty sidekick on your quest, consider partnering with a career coach. They’re like wise mentors who can help you slay your career dragons and reach your full potential.
And with over 7,500 top titles at your fingertips, with Blinkist you can explore different career paths, discover new perspectives, and even boost your confidence along the way.
Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur, a creative soul, or a tech-savvy problem solver, there’s a book (and a Blinkist summary!) waiting to ignite your passion and guide you toward your dream job.
We believe in you and know you’ll find what you are good at – no matter what it is!
