The best way to find your strengths is to explore your suckyness.
I recently listened to an interview with Adam Corolla, comedian, author and host of the Adam Corolla Show. He made a very profound comment “it’s very important to figure out what you suck at.” It got a laugh, but it’s very true.
A common thread I hear with writers and comedians is that they could never work in a normal office environment. Some of the most successful of this group figured this out early on and, in fact, were so bad at certain things that these perceived shortcomings became a major part of their act. Louis CK comes to mind. He knows exactly what he sucks at and is not afraid to share it with the world.
Now that I think about it, I can’t recall one comedian who doesn’t at least dabble in a good amount of self-deprecation. People love this. I mean, who would you rather hang out with, a blowhard who speaks only of their great achievements, or someone who can literally bring you to tears laughing at their trials and tribulations. Hollywood understands this. I think everyone can identify with at least one character from Old School, Anchorman, Wedding Crashers, or Something about Mary.
Can you make a suck list?
I’m not sure if everyone can just sit down and make a Suck List. I think it’s something that you have to experience and be aware of over a long period of time. It takes a bit of deep thought. I’m picturing some sort of anti guru who has you sit and chant “I suck at math” “I suck at holidays” “I suck at remembering names.” Doing this with yourself is not that easy. I think it’s better to start with small stuff. Some things you learned early on. Stuff you suck at, but don’t really have a huge interest in.