Overcoming Our Weaknesses as Leaders and Transforming Them into Strengths
Leadership and Administrative Skills
Daniel Leonard
County Extension Director
UF/IFAS Calhoun County Extension
Blountstown
Abstract
Every individual and every leader face personal and professional challenges. Every individual and every leader also possesses inherent strengths and weaknesses. Most of us are familiar with our personal strengths and how to utilize them to best the challenges we face. However, what do we do with our weaknesses? These limitations do not have to define one's potential. This presentation uses lessons learned through the NACAA Leadership Academy and completion of the CliftonStrengths assessment to help participants to identify, analyze, and transform weaknesses, fostering personal growth and professional success. We will emphasize self-awareness as the foundation of weakness improvement. Attendees will learn how to conduct a personal SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) to objectively assess their capabilities. Through real-world examples from each presenter, we will illustrate how individuals and organizations can turn perceived weaknesses into competitive advantages. Next, we will dive into mindset shifts necessary for growth, including adopting resilience, pursuing continuous learning, and embracing feedback. Through presenter personal case studies, we will demonstrate skill development, mentorship, and leveraging complementary team dynamics to offset weaknesses while enhancing strengths. The presentation will also cover the critical role emotional intelligence plays in transforming weaknesses, emphasizing self-regulation, motivation, and adaptability. Attendees will gain actionable insights on how to turn self-doubt into confidence, inefficiency into productivity, and limitations into areas of innovation. By the end of the session, participants will have a structured framework to convert weaknesses into stepping stones for success. This empowering approach will not only enhance individual capabilities but also contribute to a more resilient and dynamic professional environment.
Authors: Daniel Leonard, Wendy Becker, Anne LaSenne, Bindu Poudel-Ward
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Daniel Leonard County Extension Director, UF/IFAS Extension, Florida, 32424
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Wendy Becker Extension Agent, Montana State Extension, Montana, 59218
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Anne LaSenne Horticulture Agent, University of Arizona, Arizona, 85122
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Bindu Poudel-Ward Extension Plant Pathologist, University of Arizona, Arizona, 85364