When family or friends come to me with a challenge, I usually send them away with a list of books. It has gotten so bad that my boys will laugh, and before I even get the words out, say, “Let me guess. You have a book that I should read?” This month I’m going to continue my series to explain the six characteristics that will help you live and share your genius. The fourth characteristic is TALENT, which I define as resources. Enjoy!
The Little Book of Talent: 52 Tips for Improving Your Skills by Daniel Coyle. This really is a “little” book. But it has some great information! And it is well organized. The tips are delivered in three parts that help you get started, improve, and sustain your progress. It has some great suggestions that are easy to implement.
Finding Your Element: How to Discover Your Talents and Passions and Transform Your Life by Sir Ken Robinson. RIP Sir Ken. I was supposed to see him in person at the SXSW Education conference but it was canceled due to COVID. He is one of my heroes. I’ve read almost every book he’s written. This book was written in response to his book “The Element: How Finding Your Passion Changes Everything.” I suggest reading both but if you only have time for one “Finding Your Element” gives more ideas on the “how-tos”. Have I told you lately how much I love Audible? If you don’t have a lot of time to sit down and read, the investment in Audible is definitely worth it. You can listen while you are doing laundry or dishes. My favorite time is in the car. My 14-year-old son has really enjoyed some of the books!
The Big Leap: Conquer Your Hidden Fear and Take Life to the Next Level by Gay Hendricks. This book changed my life. So much good stuff in it but the reason it made the list today is Hendricks’ discussion of the “zone of genius”. Developing talent is about using resources effectively. You need to understand what your “zone of genius” is and work to stay in that zone. If you stay in your “zone of incompetence” you will always feel stupid and also will be wasting a lot of time. This can help you with your kids by helping you recognize their genius and also getting them the support they need to help them in their other zones.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling. I know some people love Harry and others won’t touch him. I’ve got to admit I’m in the former group. My sons and I were at the book launching parties and we’ve all read and/or listened to them multiple times. One of the things I love about Rowling’s books is that she so adeptly shares each character’s talents, even the minor characters. You see those talents developed throughout the books. For example, Neville Longbottom starts out as an inept student who can’t seem to do anything but by the end of the series he has found his genius and developed confidence because of it.
Amazing Grace by Mary Hoffman and Caroline Binch. I picked this book because the main character, Grace, has to work hard to overcome many obstacles to get to her goal of sharing her talent. She is able to overcome stereotypes, racism, and sexism to reach her goal. This would be a great resource to encourage your child to do the same.
ENJOY!