I have spent over 25 years working with executives, both in a team setting and as an executive coach. Whether during a one-on-one session or during facilitation with a team, I am confident we can get a “stuck” team “unstuck.” Why, because I have spent countless hours working with thousands of people as well as researching, writing and blogging for over 10 years. I have been referred to as a “thought leader and expert” in Strategic Leadership.

What is your expertise and how do you know? To help answer these questions I have borrowed heavily from the work of Martin Seligmen, Professor at The University of Pennsylvania and the founder of the field of positive psychology.

So — Try this equation (R=SxT) Results = Skills x Time.

How does this work? Well, experts must be successful in producing results. This happens when people happen when people invest time to perfect a skill –so much so that it becomes automatic. Consider the career ER doctor who can easily diagnose and treat a life-threatening illness; or the veteran soccer goalie who intuitively moves to the spot where a penalty kick is going.

I have devoted a lot of energy into becoming an “expert” in my field. Coaching is more intuitive and I am confident I can lead a group wrestling with a challenge to a positive result. I have learned to think on my feet and be successful in the moment. It comes more naturally to me than it did when I was younger. Since it takes less energy (time and effort), it frees me up to learn new “stuff” where as a beginner; I have less skill and need to invest more time into developing a new skill!

Where do you fall on this equation? Be honest with yourself. Where is your expertise? Where do you need to put your energy?