If you asked me a few weeks ago what the CliftonStrengths test was, I would not have known the answer, which is surprising considering how much I love taking quizzes and tests to learn more about myself. I am a type8 on the Enneagram; I am a Ravenclaw; and I am a Virgo sun, Gemini moon, and Virgo rising. While all of those quizzes are fun and have been interesting places for self reflection, I have never taken a test before that has been completely accurate or something I completely identify with. That is until I took the CliftonStrengths test last week.
At Furman, I am a Business Administration major, and due to this I am currently enrolled in the Business Block. Every Monday and Friday during the block, we have personal development classes. Last week, in preparation for one of these classes, we had to take the CliftonStrengths test. I could not have had a better homework assignment, and I was so excited. The test gives you over 150 paired statements, and you have to pick the statement that more closely aligns with you. Some of the questions were a little random and difficult to choose between, but I had fun nonetheless.
During class we were each given a packet that described our top five strengths. When reading through the packet for the first time, I was shocked. I have never read something that is so closely aligned with who I am and how I think. In all honesty, it was kind of scary, and it called me out 100%. Although the packet was so scarily accurate, it was also incredibly motivating! I learned that a lot of my qualities can be strengths, and I can now reflect on those strengths to cultivate them more and learn how to use those strengths best when working in a team setting. Also, with the CliftonStrengths you can learn more about what strengths in other people you may not naturally work well with. This knowledge is incredibly useful to avoid conflict when working with people you don’t know well or may not click with immediately as well as ensure all projects are accomplished successfully.
If you have the ability to take the CliftonStrengths test, I would highly encourage it. Not only is it incredibly fun to take and see your results, but it is a great way to ensure success in other areas of your life!