“The definition of a strength that we will use throughout this book is quite specific: consistent near perfect performance in an activity.”

“Satisfactions provide the last clue to talent. As we described in the previous chapter, your strongest synaptic connections are designed so that when you use them, it feels good. Thus, obviously, if it feels good when you perform an activity, chances are that you are using a talent.”

“Our definition of a weakness is anything that gets in the way of excellent performance.”

“To develop a strength in any activity requires certain natural talents.”

“The second flaw is that some activities, almost by definition, defy being broken down into steps.”

“Knowledge consists of the facts and lessons learned.Skills are the steps of an activity.These three-talents, knowledge, and skills-combine to create your strengths.”

“There is one sure way to identify your greatest potential for strength: Step back and watch yourself for a while. Try an activity and see how quickly you pick it up, how quickly you skip steps in the learning and add twists and kinks you haven't been taught yet. See whether you become absorbed in the activity to such an extent that you lose track of time. If none of these has happened after a couple of months, try another activity and watch-and another. Over time your dominant talents will reveal themselves, and you can start to refine them into a powerful strength.”