How to use your strengths to stay on track

Weekly Technique

By Weight Watchers

Last updated 11 July 2024

A man and woman playing pool in a cozy living room.

Some of your best tools on this journey? The qualities and traits that shine when you feel like you’re bringing your A-game. Recognise, celebrate, and draw on them daily.

Try This!

Step 1 Identify a strength by filling in the blanks. • I feel like my best self when I'm I'd never change about myself comes naturally. Name an attribute that most closely relates to your answers. A few examples: Thoughtful, focused, clever, open-minded, loving, spiritual, hopeful, grateful, strong, creative, curious, brave, zestful, determined, forgiving, sense of humour. My strength is Step 2 Picture times you've used this strength. To connect to it and realise its impact, visualise what you were doing, how good it felt, and the outcome. Step 3 Write an affirmation to remind you of your strength. It can be simple, like I am focused or My zest for life is my greatest asset. My affirmation is Step 4 Deploy your affirmation— and your strength's power. Try saying it every morning to set the tone for the day, when faced with a challenge, or whenever you need a pep talk.

Let’s dive a little deeper...

Most of us know this journey isn’t straightforward; it’s full of detours, speed bumps, and the occasional flat tyre. And it can be all too easy to replay the tough moments and think, “What’s wrong with me?” It’s actually pretty common.

But you’re more likely to enjoy the ride and get where you’re going—back on track, making healthy choices—if instead you ask, “What’s right with me?” Then, “How can I use that?” Our strengths make us who we are. Think about what you love about friends and family. Maybe it’s your partner’s sense of humour or a co-worker’s determination. What would someone call out about you? What would you say if you were your friend?

Recognising your strengths is the mindset equivalent of a hug and a cheer—a feeling of acceptance and celebration rolled into one. It can boost self-confidence in your abilities to accomplish something (i.e. to stay within your Budget) or to develop a new skill (baking, anyone?) and help you see solutions based on what comes naturally and works for you.