Leveraging Your Unique Skills: A Conversation with My Future Self

Let me ask you this: Have you ever wondered what your future self would say about the choices you're making today?

I’ve been thinking about that a lot lately, especially as we’re deep into the last quarter of the year—a time when most of us are reviewing our performance, wrapping up our goals, and maybe even feeling a little uncertain about what’s next.

Truth be told, I’ve been feeling some of that uncertainty myself. Like most people, I get caught up in the grind, checking off tasks but not always pausing to consider if I’m really using my skills and experiences to their fullest potential. As I reflected on my 5x5 rule, a thought crossed my mind—what would Future Me (5 years from now) say about all of this?

So, let’s try something different today. If I had a chat with Future Me, what gems of wisdom would she share? Spoiler alert: it involves getting strategic.

Present Me: It’s the last quarter of the year—deep breath. I’m feeling… well, a little unsure. I mean, I’ve got the skills, I’ve got the experience, but did I do enough? Did I really use my strengths to their fullest potential?

Future Me (appears, full of confidence):
"You’re asking the wrong questions."

Present Me (startled):
Whoa! Future Me, what are you doing here? (Also, can you bring lottery numbers next time?)

Future Me (calmly):
I’m here to remind you of something important. Instead of asking, ‘Did I do enough?’ try asking, ‘Did I leverage what makes me different?’ You’ve got more going for you than you realize.

Present Me (sighs):
I don’t know… my experiences feel all over the place. I don’t see how they fit together.

Future Me (chuckles knowingly):
That’s exactly the point. Those unconventional skills and experiences? They’re your secret weapon. While others are trying to fit into the same mold, you’ve got an edge. Your path is unique, and that’s your strength.

Present Me:
Okay, I get that. But how do I use it?

Future Me (leans in, confident):
Let’s start simple—this last quarter isn’t about ticking boxes for performance reviews. It’s about leaning into your unique strengths. You’ve got more in your toolkit than you’re giving yourself credit for.

Present Me (nodding):
That makes sense, but how do I identify my strengths?

Future Me (confidently):
Look at the moments where you thrived. Not just where you succeeded, but where you excelled. Did you pull on something unique to you? Maybe it’s your fresh cultural perspective or your experience across different industries. The things that feel ‘different’ are often your biggest strengths.

Present Me:
You’re right. I need to see my path as an asset. But how do I highlight this in my year-end review?

Future Me (smiling):
You don’t highlight it—you own it. Walk into that review with your tracker in hand and tell the story of your year. Show how your diverse background led to innovative solutions. Own your narrative—no one can tell it better than you.

Present Me:
The tracker?

Future Me:
Yes! You’ve been using it all year to track your accomplishments, right? It’s not just about listing what you’ve done; it’s about showing how your unique experiences shaped your results. Use it to tell your story.

Present Me (smiling):
Got it. So how do I keep this momentum going next year?

Future Me:
Think of this quarter as a launchpad. Set goals that allow you to leverage your experiences even more. Network differently, with people who value your perspective. Seek out projects that align with your strengths, not just your job description. And if your priorities change? Adjust the map.

Present Me:
What if my passions shift? What if I wake up one day and want something completely different?

Future Me (wisely):
You mean like opening a jerk chicken stand?😏 Then you adjust. Goals aren’t set in stone—they’re guideposts. Your passions will evolve, and your goals should reflect where you are now, not where you thought you’d be years ago. Growth isn’t linear—it’s a journey with twists, turns, and new destinations.

Present Me:
So, it’s okay to change my goals?

Future Me:
It’s not just okay—it’s necessary. If your passions change, adjust the map. Discover new directions, embrace the curveballs, and trust that the detours might lead to even better destinations.

Present Me:
You’re making this sound way less intimidating.

Future Me (laughing):
Because it’s not that complicated. You already have the tools. Keep tracking your progress, adjust as needed, and remember: Every mickle mek a muckle—small, consistent efforts lead to big results.

Present Me (grinning):
Okay, I feel ready.

Future Me:
I know you are. Now go finish the year strong. And if you ever get stuck, lean on your board of directors—mentors, sponsors, and coaches. They’re there to guide you. Worst case scenario, have a convo with future you 😉.

If you take nothing else from this conversation, remember: leveraging your unique skills and experiences isn’t about fitting into a mold. It’s about owning what makes you different, adjusting when necessary, and always moving forward. Your future self is counting on you to make the most of your journey.

And as always, ‘wah fi yuh cyaan un fi yuh.’ What’s meant for you is already yours—you just have to claim it.

~Meisha