Strength Finder Themes

Strength Finder Themes

Upon completion of the strength finder report, five themes were listed as a top five in matching the personality of the participant. Moreover, the top five themes that matched were Input, Discipline, Arranger, Belief, and Responsibility. The results of these strengths should help in understanding the unique talents the participant may portray, along with knowledge in helping put those strengths into actions, and finally how to use these strengths in working with others. Through reflection of the top five themes, there are definite talents within each theme that reinforces what an effective leader depicts. Becoming an effective leader takes not only initiative, but willingness to make mistakes and learn through these

mistakes.
Input
A person who shows qualities around the theme, Input, is described as being somebody who wants to know what is happening in the world. People who share this strength have ambitions of expanding their knowledge base. Often times they try to turn their knowledge into usefulness. Rath (2007) shared a story about a person who struggled retrieving information about what was going on in the world, and when the Internet was introduced, that frustration was hindered because he had an efficient way of becoming more informed. Other people may notice certain characteristics about those that possess this strength. According to Clifton (2016), people may need confirmation on what they are doing. This willingness to share the knowledge with others may be why.
Theory Practices
What can people who have characteristics of the Input behavior do to promote the environment around them? Looking for a job that will enable them to seek information at their level of inquisitiveness is essential. Keeping other people apprized with what is happening around them will stimulate a productive working environment. According to Rath, “You naturally soak up information in the same way that a sponge soaks up water” (p. 126). This open mindedness, along with being a good receiver of information reinforces the need to have a good system of filing so that this information is easily located. Scheduling time to read books that interest you, identify situations where you can share your interests with others like you, and collecting new vocabulary are ways of helping promote your own growth. When approaching others in a working environment, be careful not to judge others that are not like you but encourage them along the way. Clifton (2016) summarizes, some people will benefit from being a part of a team where these practices are being observed consistently. Sharing common interests is a way to keep communication, along with friendships, authentic in the way that everybody feels their suggestions matter.
Reflection
As I read through the summary of what strengths the Input theme entails, I felt like I was outside looking in. It didn’t feel like the information that I was reading really represented my strongest qualities, especially when comparing this theme with the other four themes. Being a special education teacher and having people on my team, I try to ensure them that they do not work for me, rather they work with me towards a common goal. In doing this, they are more willing to ask for help.
Discipline
Discipline is a term that is often paired with routines, timelines, and structure. People who find themselves in this theme are orderly. They need to have a presence of control over situations so they know what is happening next. Rath (2007) quotes from his book, “Your world needs to be predictable. It needs to be ordered and planned” (p. 93). In a leadership position, a person with this type of theme doesn’t think highly of missed opportunities. Time-management is necessary along with having a system of reminders. People of this nature don’t feel deserving. They are impatient with errors, especially their own. Many people see them as being rude, when in all reality, they are just being perceptive.
Theory Practices
When working in a leadership position or on a team with other members, this strength will help increase efficiency in the work environment. Rath (2007) continues, “Discover situations in which time or money is being wasted because of efficiency, and create systems or procedures to improve efficiency” (p. 95). Giving people advanced notice for deadlines will create a more compelling environment. To continue with the collaboration, limit surprising people with sudden transitions.
Reflection
When reading the characteristics of this theme, there were parts that I easily associated with. I am inclined to gravitate towards lists in helping with organization. In the area of special education, there are various deadlines. Timelines are unavoidable when administering assessments, determining eligibility, and finally creating an individualized program. The process of special education can become quite complicated so devising a step by step plan aids in efficiency.
Arranger
A person who has Arranger strengths seem to spark a sense of desire in people around them. Others will be amazed at your management skills. Rath (2007) states that in the mind of an Arranger, they are not doing anything out of the ordinary. Through this mainframe, Arrangers will investigate first-rate solutions. People of prominent roles think on their feet, in addition to being more effective at jumping into confusion to discover improved outcomes.
Theory Practices
Arrangers help their coworkers become more aware of their own goals. They are team leaders that look at the good in all people, regardless of who they are or where they come from. They have a way of discovering other people’s abilities, along with placing them in the right environment where they will be successful.
Reflection
When thinking about this, what is evident is the continued focus on making certain people are in a progressive environment. Working with students with disabilities, success is often defined by their progress. It is my obligation to help them in defining their progress through various opportunities.
Belief
People who have high ethics, value responsibility and family, fall into the category of Belief. In addition, they tend to work extensive hours on something that is very purposeful to them. These traits attribute to their life long goals. Rath states, “Your work must be meaningful, it must matter to you” (2007. p. 57). He continues by saying that having this belief will only make a difference if you give yourself opportunities to reach your goals (2007). In conclusion, this theme is family orientated. The time that is not spent working is dedicated to family time.
Theory Practices
Having this characteristic will help analyze ways of helping others with their own goals. By sharing ideas and values, others will learn to treasure their own ideals. When helping others, do not be fearful of giving credit to your own values. People who are responsible will take ownership with projects while sharing the obligations. By sharing these duties, others will aide in maintaining focus. Quality is important trait, consequently, be careful not to take on more than you can handle.
Reflection
Goal setting is significant as a special education teacher. We write educational and transition goals for each student. In addition, we create specific learning objectives that help in supporting our professional advancement. Clifton (2016) states that having someone that works side by side with you will help keep you focused so that you do not take on more than you can handle.
Responsibility
The final theme is Responsibility.

This theme takes a more subjective view about behavior. The attention to detail and accountability are two trademarks that stand out. When they say, let your conscience be your guide, they are talking about taking responsibility.

Theory

Practice
A person of this virtue distinguishes what is right from wrong.

In leadership positions, keeping your promise helps in retaining reliability. Order and structure help with getting things accomplished although it can sometimes become overwhelming. Rath (2007) forewarned saying the willingness to help others can lead to taking on more responsibilities that you can handle. Be cautious and not allow your undertakings become your burdens.

Reflection

This virtue is one that is necessary in any leadership position, whether you are in charge of a corporation or head of household. You have to be held accountable for your choices, even when they are unpleasant.

Conclusion

Discussed in this paper are five out of the thirty four themes from Raft’s (2007) Strengthsfinder book. Even though they have similar traits, each one has something that stands out over the rest. Input focuses on talent and instinct where discipline is more about maintaining order. Arranger encourages progression through flexibility and belief is more on the spiritual side that focuses on the time for family. Finally, responsibility, the fifth theme stresses the attention to detail and being held accountable. When working in a leadership position, it isn’t so much about being able to identify with just one theme, but more of being able to look at each theme, take something from it, and apply it to your lifestyle which will aid in becoming a more effective

leader.