Making the most of your full potential

Actress Lupita Nyong’o, of the film 12 Years A Slave braids hair. This is a skill that the Oscar-winning actress has used to get herself through college. PHOTOS BY AGENCIES

What you need to know:

It is said that if you do what you love, you will live a longer and better life. Irene Njoroge-Kristian shows how you can streamline your career to something that you truly like.

You could be sitting on gold mine without realising it. Everyone possesses one or more special talents or qualities that can be put to good use. It could be a gift that you have always suppressed in the belief that it is nothing special.
It could be something you have always wanted to do, but felt held back because somebody somewhere, especially when you were in your formative years, dismissed it in favour of opportunities that appeared more viable. This may have led you to forget about your gift and opt to earn a living to give you a stable income.
Harvard University published a study that revealed some interesting statistics. The most successful people in the world are those who utilise their talents. Your God-given talents are your special gift to the world. Learn to tap into them and use them in the best way. Here are some ideas on how to start:

1. Work in a job that you love
It is said that if you do what you love, you will live a longer and better life. Streamline your career to something that you truly like, as opposed to something you simply do to earn a living. This means that you should find work in a field that suits you perfectly well.
This way, you will be able to give it your all and with that, success will follow. If you dread getting up to go to work, rethink your situation and make plans to get into your real career. Do not struggle in a field that is not fulfiling.

2. Change your skill set
Many people are multi-talented. You could be one of those lucky ones who excel in two or even three fields of work. This means that you can re-invent yourself should the situation arise. You may be a renowned corporate type, while at the same time possessing exceptional gourmet skills that could set you up as a chef.
Who knows, one day you could run a restaurant! Spend time exploring your other talents and acquire skills in that area. Many people have found themselves relying on their other talents after running out of options in formal employment.

3. Acquire a universal skill
Suppose you ended up somewhere as a refugee? Where would you find work in a new country? This is where the acquisition of universal skills comes in. One qualification that you could never go wrong with is a teaching certificate. Teachers are always on demand anywhere you go.
There are always children and people looking to learn. Teaching is a career that does not depend on your celebrity status or political affiliation.
You could have six months of experience or 20 years and still be useful. You can start it as a retirement career and still succeed enormously.