A message from Sandy. A person’s talent can be defined by your special natural ability or aptitude, or even your capacity for achievement or success. Talent can also be your gifts, things you do well, that you are passionate about. While many have found their talent, many more have not—the question is: “Is using your talent more difficult than finding it?”

Do you know anyone that has an incredible gift, but somehow there is a disconnect? They can’t seem to find the time to do it, are too scared to take the leap and do it, or worse, to lazy to make the jump. There may be three levels to describe your talent:

1. HIDDEN TALENT: Not undiscovered talent, but talent that is known and deliberately hidden by its owner. Perhaps this could be due to a distorted self-image or lack of self-confidence. Can’t you think of someone who has been praised and complimented on their strengths and gifts and outright downplay their own talents? In these cases, do you wonder if these potential talents have been given a death sentence? They are there, but remain buried.
2. HOARDED TALENT: This would be someone who has already discovered their talents and passions, but is merely exercising them for their own benefit. Most of the things they do have only themselves in mind, they may even pick up new skills along the way, but they are going to keep those gifts to themselves as well. This may not be wrong, but hopefully in this is stage, the development will continue and it will not be the final one. As we pursue our passions and develop our talents, taking care of our own needs is important, but we should challenge ourselves to go to the next level where we start to think beyond ourselves.
3. HARNESSED TALENT: When one’s talents are harnessed, you are not only exercising them for your own benefit, but others as well. You actively involve others, and see how your skills and expertise can help those in need. At this point you probably realize that though your passions and talents start with you, it does not have to end with you–you can incorporate others into the big picture. Harnessed talent makes a difference. It makes an impact on the lives of others and leaves a tiny imprint in the universe, that may inspire others who are on their own journey. You have the capacity to make a difference in your own life and in the lives of others.

Your talents——hide them, hoard them, or harness them?