I have always believed in strengths-based development. My recent reading of Thomas Armstrong’s The Power of Neurodiversity (2025) took that belief to a whole new level.
Armstrong makes the case for neurodiverse people to build strengths awareness, identify affirming career aspirations, find exemplars, use assistive technologies, build enriched social networks, adapt environments, and draw on strength-based learning and problem-solving strategies and inner resources. What struck me most is how difficult it actually is for anyone, neurodiverse or not, to name their own strengths. We are so well trained to scan for what’s wrong.
Armstrong’s invitation is different. Rather than cataloguing deficits, the aim is to build a treasure chest of what you are already doing well, without comparing yourself to anyone else. Every strength you name becomes something to reflect on: When did I last use this? How could I grow it into a hobby, or even a career?
His checklist runs from page 226 to 234 of the book, spanning categories that include Logical, Emotional, Communication, Musical, Literacy, Dexterity, Cultural, Creative, Cognitive, Nature, Personal, Physical, Social, Spiritual, Technology, and Visual/Spatial strengths — plus a final, generous “what else?”
That range matters. Strength does not only look like academic brilliance or technical skill. It can be the way you notice a friend is struggling before they say a word, the instinct for rhythm, the patience for detailed handwork, or a quiet connection to nature. Once you start looking with this lens, the doors that open can feel almost overwhelming in the best way.
So here is the practice, simply put: Identify your strengths. Put your strengths in your Strengths Treasure Chest. Chase your strengths. Remind yourself of them often. Expand and build on them. And then chase them again. Open your Strengths Treasure Chest daily.
Happy strengths chasing.
I work with senior managers in local government to help them make hard decisions and manage uncooperative stakeholders so that they can deal with the extreme demands and lead calmly.
Christa Liebenberg
SA-ICF DEIB Volunteer
