You have strengths and weaknesses, just like every other person in the world.

But few people intentionally take advantage of their strengths. Imagine the impact you could have on your life and the lives of others by maximizing the things you are best at. You can't go wrong by shining bright and being your best self.

Leverage your strengths and have more influence on your world with these strategies:

1. Identify your strengths. You can't leverage what you can't identify. What are you better at than the average person? Keep in mind that programming the DVR probably isn't a marketable skill (but then again, maybe it is!).

Here are a few ideas:

* Influencing others * Networking * Public speaking * Writing * Computer programming * Website design * Education * Athleticism * Photography

Be sure to ask your friends, family, and colleagues for their opinions. You may have strengths you never considered. The people around you may have noticed things you've failed to notice about yourself.

2. Convince yourself that these really are personal strengths that you possess. What proof do you have that you're a great writer, listener, or public speaker? Pretend you're in a job interview. What evidence would you give that you have writing skills?

* I have written for three very popular blogs for over a year. * I have completed several college courses in creative writing. * I'm currently writing a book. * I have written four articles for various magazines.

Do this for all of your identified strengths.

3. Determine how you can put these strengths to work for you. Consider your current business/career, social situation, finances, and every other aspect of your life. How can you leverage your skills to boost your life?

* Are you in the correct niche to take full advantage of your skills? * Do your hobbies use your skills? * Could your strengths be used to build a stronger social network?

4. Make a plan. Develop a plan to make the most of your strengths. It's okay to start small, but avoid selling yourself short. Maximizing your strengths is your way to the top.

Make a plan to apply your strengths to at least three key areas of your life. Be aggressive in your long-term outlook.

5. Continue to build your skills to a higher level. Never stop developing your strengths. And remember to reevaluate your strengths each year. You'll develop new strengths over time. Ensure you're continuously building and evaluating yourself.

Create a second plan to develop your greatest strengths even further. What resources do you have available to you? Are there books or seminars that are applicable? Could you find a mentor?

Your strengths are unique to you, and the way you apply them can be just as unique. Make the most of your natural and acquired talents and maximize your life.

The entire world benefits when you're applying your strengths each day. Don't leave this up to randomness or happenstance - make a plan to leverage your strengths.