The Sweet Spot vs The Sweat Spot
“I believe it is essential that each of us find his or her Element, not simply because it will make us more fulfilled but because, as the world evolves, the very future of our communitieis and institutions will depend on it.” ~Ken Robinson
Rhythm and flow are essential in maintaining momentum, and it is critical to find that rhythm. 80 percent of people in the world believe their gifts are not being fully utilised and this results in people constantly trying to reinvent themselves to find meaning. The 20 percent that seems to have found their value is operating in what I call their “sweet spot”, a position where passion meets talent and purpose. The first step is finding your values, the things that are important to you, then you find your strengths, which are the things you are naturally good at then you tie it together with your purpose.
Knowing your internal motivators, which are your dreams and values, is the key to living in your sweet spot, failure to realise this usually results in you living in your sweat spot. The sweat spot is characterised by the following:
- Failure to focus your energy or attention
- Feeling overworked or getting exhausted faster than you should
- A deep feeling of monotony or routine
- Working harder for fewer results
- Just trying to get by
To master the sweet spot you need to be intentional in your thinking, and answer some questions about your personality. Let me break it down for you.
Passion – What fascinates you? What topic do you like to discuss the most? Most legendary creative careers start with a genuine interest in a particular field. Perhaps it’s film, coffee, or aeroplane travel. A genuine interest is not about what promises the most economic gain. On the contrary, it is a topic that trumps economic concerns because you love it so much. Attempting to achieve greatness without a genuine interest in any field is like running a marathon after fasting. Remarkable achievements are fuelled by genuine interest.
Talent – What are your skill strengths or natural gifts? Perhaps you possess a unique compassion for the human condition? Take an inventory of what you know or could easily learn and do. The skills you possess are a helpful indicator of the opportunities that are most likely to flourish under your leadership. Of course, skills alone are insufficient. But, when paired with a genuine interest and a new opportunity, your innate capabilities can truly shine, opening the doors to success.
Purpose – Every achievement has a reason behind it, what motivates you to take up a certain task? Is it recognition? Is it money? Is it compassion? You need to find your “why” if you are going to find and maintain your sweet spot. You need to outline your values and core beliefs and see why you are committed to the field of choice. The purpose is what ties it all up, people gravitate towards a systematically defined vision and are more receptive to it because they understand and see why you are doing what you are doing. So whether you are playing sport, writing, painting, cooking, or following a career, your “why” needs to be convincing.
Exceptional achievers dedicate their whole life to their craft, it is the sole reason they get out of bed every morning. that is the same mentality you need to approach your own destiny with. Finding your sweet spot does not mean you don’t work hard or meet obstacles and challenges. It doesn’t mean everything will be smooth sailing but it means you are in a position to think and act productively. You will be in that position where whatever you do is purpose driven and that propels you to perform at your highest level. With that said, self-development should be a priority in all we do. We need to find that place where we give the world the best version of ourselves. Have you found your sweet spot yet? if yes, can you please share with us your journey in the comments section.
