Discovering Your Superpower

By Laura J. Brandao, author of Say YES Everyday!

Life doesn’t happen to us, it happens for us, and it begins with the simple act of opening a door.

I remember one of those life moments so clearly.

At 21 years old, I was the mother of a 2-year-old boy and working at a telemarketing call center in an entry-level position to supplement my family’s income.

I always knew I was destined for a great life, regardless of the circumstances that I was experiencing. I knew that I had the power within me to create the life I wanted, and one of my dreams was for our family to own a home. I grew up renting, and after speaking with homeowners everyday while working on a mortgage telemarketing campaign, I decided that I would break the cycle and raise my family in a home of our own.

I knew I had to take action. So, one day I went to work early, so I could speak to the vice president of the company and ask to work more hours. Corporate protocol dictated that I should start by speaking to my supervisor. However, something inside me told me that the best approach was to go straight to the top.

I entered his office and he was somewhat surprised and indignant that I would be so bold. He asked me what made me think I could just walk in and talk to him. I felt confident, so I simply told him the truth. I wanted to work more hours, so I could afford to buy a house.

My honesty and confidence seemed to change his attitude, and he asked me where I was thinking of buying a house. We made a connection in that moment, and the relationship moved from cheeky employee and annoyed manager to him wanting to help and mentor me. That dynamic continued for many years as he continued to share his experience and insights with me.

I was promoted for showing initiative and continued to move along the path toward my goal.

I discovered that ‘knowing what I want and asking for it’ is one of my superpowers. I learned that when I act, while putting others first in the equation, I can successfully overcome fear and doubt and push forward to achieve any desired outcome.

Whether it is helping a client obtain a mortgage, or assisting my family and friends, when I am motivated to benefit those around me, nothing can hold me back.

It is important for entrepreneurs, especially, to identify their own superpower, and put it to work for them every day. When you figure out your specific strength, you will know. Everything will feel right. You will find yourself “in the zone” where everything lines up, and it can feel almost magical. That is how you know you have found your own superpower.

To read more about discovering your superpower, check out Laura’s Say YES Everyday blog or book.