James Clear and the Concept of Superstrengths: A Powerful Combination

James Clear, the best-selling author of Atomic Habits, is known for his insights on habits, decision-making, and continuous improvement. One of his quotes captures a profound idea that aligns with the concept of "superstrengths," even if unintentionally. Clear states:

"I'm not the best writer, but it is a strength. I might be a 90th percentile writer.
And I'm not the best marketer, but it is a strength. Again, maybe 90th percentile? I'm better than most, but if you pass 100 people on the street, it won't be hard to find some people better than me.
What I have gradually learned is that it is not your strengths, but your combination of strengths that sets you apart. It is the fact that writing and marketing are mutually reinforcing."

James Clear touches here on a fundamental truth that rings true to the concept of superstrengths: you don’t have to be the best at everything, but you can excel by combining your unique set of strengths.

The Essence of Superstrengths

The concept of superstrengths is rooted in the idea that we as individuals should focus on our most potent capabilities rather than strive to be well-rounded in all areas. In our upcoming book, Superstrengths, we compare being well-rounded to a Swiss army knife—versatile but not exceptional in any one area. In contrast, possessing a specialised skill is like wielding a mallet or a sword: highly focused and powerful in its specific function.

This approach emphasizes maximizing what you’re exceptionally good at while finding ways to complement or cover for areas where you might not be as strong.

James Clear’s quote illustrates this perfectly. He admits he isn't the best writer or marketer, but he recognizes that he is above average in both areas. More importantly, he understands that his unique strength lies in the combination of these two skills. Writing and marketing together create a synergy that is far more powerful than being exceptional at just one or the other. This is the essence of superstrengths.

The Power of Combining Strengths

Clear’s insight that it is the "combination of strengths that sets you apart" mirrors a similar approach taken by many successful individuals and organizations. It’s not about being a one-dimensional powerhouse; it’s about leveraging a distinctive blend of abilities that, together, create a competitive advantage.

In Clear's case, his ability to write effectively and market strategically has allowed him to build a massive following, sell millions of books, and establish himself as a thought leader. Neither skill alone would have propelled him to the heights he has reached. However, the combination of these two strengths, each reinforcing the other, has set him apart in a crowded field.

This philosophy is particularly relevant in today's world, where specialization often trumps generalization. Being good at two or more intersecting skills can create opportunities that aren’t available to someone who is only a specialist in one area. For example, a good engineer with strong communication skills can bridge the gap between technical teams and stakeholders.

Conclusion: Embracing Superstrengths in Our Lives

James Clear's insights, whether intentionally or not, align with our concept of Superstrengths. His success is a testament to the power of understanding one’s unique combination of strengths and leveraging them effectively. Clear’s approach offers a refreshing perspective: focus on your strengths, find the right combination, and allow them to reinforce each other.