What's Your Secret Sauce? - 16A

1) Describe five ways in which you think you have human capital that is truly unique. What is it about you, exactly, that makes you different? Write this up in a detailed list. 

Smart Worker:  I think a lot of students and people will talk about how they are all hardworking. Which is definitely a great trait and attribute to have. But I tend to avoid constantly working hard, and look at my situation and focus on the most important task. How can I accomplish this with the least amount of effort, while still maintaining the same results? I love the quote that says, “work smarter, not harder”.

Driven: I am driven. Along with being a smart worker, I aim to get the job done. Once I set my mind to something I will give my all to accomplish it.  

Curiosity: Ever since I was young, I was constantly asking questions, wanting to understand and learn more. I may ask too many questions sometimes, but I think that there is no such thing as a stupid question. It’s never too late to learn something new.

Perceptive: I think besides being analytical, I have a sense of “street smart”. Which is being perceptive and having that, not so common, common sense. I pay attention to details and I tend to know when something works and will have a good outcome.

Analytical: I would say that I always look at problems and life in a very analytical way. I look at the facts and always try to use logical reasoning. I think that’s why many people consider me mature for my age. Many people in my age range tend to make mistakes then they might learn from them, growing up with older siblings and friends, I have always tried to avoid their mistakes and make better choices the first time around.

2) Interview the five people who know you the best. 

These interviews are audio only.

Interview #1: My middle sister, Megan

She agreed that I was a "smart" worker and she disagreed with me where I said I was an analytical thinker and decision maker. She said that thinks I can be more emotional when making decisions. I don't think of myself as an emotional person at all so this was interesting to hear. 

Interview #2: My mother, Priscila

My mother agreed with my list of attributes and she added that I am assertive when I need to be, and I actually agree with this. I assume leadership when needed in group settings and I can tend to take control.

Interview #3: My father, Juan

My father, the jokester, commented on my stubbornness. Which I have to agree is one of my biggest traits. He also mentioned my drive and my "OCD" (not literally, again being a jokester and to no offense to anyone) which I think I tend to not realize. Hopefully like he mentioned these can be positive attributes that will help me in my future business endeavors.

Interview #4: My oldest sister, Brittany

My sister Brittany also agreed with my choices of attributes and added that I was approachable and resourceful. I never considered myself an approachable person but I don't disagree with her. I do think of myself as a resourceful person. 

Interview #5: My closest friend, Abby

My final interview was with Abby. She agreed that I take a more analytical approach and not an emotional outlook. Which I definitely agree. She also said I should be more ambitious and driven.

3) Reflect on the differences. How do you see yourself, and how do others see you? Are there differences in how you assess yourself compared to others? What do you think causes these differences? Do you think your interviewees are correct about you? Finally, going back to your list from part 1, would you make any corrections to the list? How? 

So, though my interviews were quick and short, I think I picked a good list of attributes all around. My closest family and friend mostly agreed with my list and added some other traits that I wouldn't have considered. I think I tend to assess myself a little more realistically and not just say anything. I guess that can mean I'm harsher on myself when analyzing my own qualities versus others assessing me. I think my interviewees were correct about a lot of things, I agree that I can be resourceful, and also that I can assume the leadership role when needed. I disagree with my sister's comment that I am more emotional and less analytical. 

Going back to my list from part 1, I wouldn't change anything. I honestly think my list embodies me well and describes who I am when it comes to business, work and study. 


I'll just leave this little picture here enjoy!