How to Be Exceptional: Drive Leadership Success By Magnifying Your Strengths

CHAPTER 12Getting Out of the Pit

When to Fix Weaknesses and Fatal Flaws

The Difference Between Weaknesses and Fatal Flaws

As we talk to groups of leaders, it is interesting to ask the question, “How many of you think that just possibly you might have at least one weakness?” Of course, every hand goes up. Most people are well aware that they have some weaknesses. It is also a fascinating experience to ask people to think of the best leader they have ever worked with or closely observed. If you ask about this person’s strengths, the answers come quickly. You can then ask, “Did this person have any weaknesses?” Once again the answer invariably is, “Yes—he [or she] was not perfect.”

For some, it is an “aha” experience to understand that you do not ...