WEEKLY WISOM - THE "IT" FACTOR

"IT" Factor: A unique and noteworthy quality that makes someone or something exceptional.

When someone delivers an amazing presentation, when they command the room, when they can tell engaging stories, when they make you feel that you are the most important person in the room; often times people say that the person has the “IT” Factor. Some personalities that people say has the “IT” Factor includes Barak Obama, Denzel Washington, General Colin Powell, Lionel Richie, and Michael B. Jordan.

I would like to make a profound statement here. I believe that everyone has the “IT" Factor! Yes, you have it. It is where you possess the qualities within your own DNA! This is also the gift that you give to those whom you meet. The challenge is that everyone is not always cognizant or understands the impact they have on others. There’s a proven formula for optimizing your “IT" Factor; your authenticity plus your craft and your giving. Let’s examine each of these below.

What determines your “IT” Factor and the main qualities? There is an authenticity that exudes from within you which brings out your “IT” Factor. That authenticity means that you embrace your genuine and true self and display it with consistency in all your environments. You have done the work to know who you are and what gifts and qualities you possess to give back to others. You know that you have been blessed with your gifts and qualities for a greater purpose and not just to serve yourself.

I encourage you as a leader to understand who you are and how you have been uniquely designed to maximize your authenticity. There are many personality tests and assessments you can take so that you can understand your make up. I recommend that you start with the Bible as it confirms how God designed you and how He sees you. The NKJ version of Psalm 139:14 states the following: I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well. 1st Peter 2:9 states: But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light

Now integrating your authenticity with your craft will highlight your “It” Factor. What is your craft? It’s that gift or talent that you have been blessed with that shows your expertise and competence. People will look for your consult or input on that subject whether it be in real-estate, acting, financial services, healthcare, speaking and coaching, trade services, and more. You were uniquely designed to be a master in your gift. The responsibility comes where you must consistently and constantly be trained in your craft.

You may have more than one craft, but I would recommend that you focus on no more than two or three to maximize your gifts and be able to effectively give it back to others. Proverbs 18:16 states in the NKJ version- A man’s gift makes room for him, and brings him before great men.

Luke 6:38 (NIV) states “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you”.  This is a precept of God’s word that we can have assurance in how this principle works. Now I would like to open your mind a bit more. They way your reward comes is not always in a direct financial capacity. God has so many ways in how He operates that our minds cannot comprehend them. Remember, His ways are not like our ways, and His thoughts are higher than our thoughts (Isaiah 55:9). The only expectation you should have confidence in is knowing that our Master that will take care of you no matter what. Keep giving out of a pure heart and watch God care for you in ways unimaginable.

To remember your “IT” Factor, embrace this formula- Authenticity + Craft + Giving = “IT” Factor!

(EQUIPPING)

Exercise Your Power this week.

1.       Determine what your “IT” Factor is in life.

2.      Identify how your “IT” Factor has shown up positively in your various environments.

3.      Identify ways that you will intentionally use your “IT” factor for the good of you and others.