There is nobody like you anywhere. There never has been and never will be. God Himself crafted you uniquely and individually.

The more you know yourself, the better you will understand the kind of work you are uniquely gifted and prepared to do and where you can best do it.

Discover your unique qualities in five categories.

1. Background — education and experience
2. Abilities — skills, talents, knowledge
3. Interests — things you enjoy doing
4. Personality — natural traits and tendencies
5. Values — standards, purpose, passions

Try this four-part process.

SELF-ASSESSMENT

Make a list of your accomplishments, experiences, and attributes. Look for patterns.

REFERENCE ASSESSMENTS

Ask 4 to 6 people who know you to make their own lists about you in each of the five categories listed above. You might create a simple form for them to fill out and return to you confidentially.

PROFESSIONAL ASSESSMENT

Dozens of assessment tests are available on the market, and more than likely you’ve already taken one or two through work or church. Some focus on skills, some on traits. Some can be taken in 10 minutes; others take hours and include follow-up sessions with a counselor. You should take at least one or two.

SUMMARIZE

Spread out all of the results from your assessments. Look for common themes in each of the five categories. Write down several qualities in each category to compile a well-rounded portrait of yourself.

For it was You who formed my inward parts;
You knit me together in my mother's womb.
I praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.
Psalm 139:13

"How to Walk Through a Crossroads in Your Career™" and all excerpts © 2008 Crossroads Career® Services, Inc. All rights reserved.  Used by permission. Contents distributed by HisChurchatWork.org > used for non-profit teaching purposes only.

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