Context®

Context is one of 34 strengths from Clifton Strengths / Gallup Strengths Finder.

Do you manage somebody with the Context Strength? Find out how to maximise their contribution, both as an individual and as part of the team’s strengths.

Summary of This Strength

Individuals who have the Context (Clifton Strengths Finder) talents have a strong ability to put things into context and to understand how the past has influenced current events. They are good at explaining the background to others and at learning from experience and avoiding the mistakes of the past.

How You See the World

Your perspective of the world is similar to using a rear-view mirror while driving. You frequently look back to ensure that everything is proceeding smoothly and to maintain an understanding of the surrounding environment. This continual reference to what has already occurred helps you to navigate and make sense of the current landscape.

People with the Consistency strength often enjoy history, research and archives.

What This Strength is Known For

You are renowned for your ability to draw lessons from past experiences and for your understanding of how current situations arise. Your insight into historical events and trends provides valuable lessons that inform decisions and strategies today.

Potential Downsides or ‘shadow’ sides

However, your strong orientation towards the past can sometimes lead to potential downsides. You may feel unsettled if you don’t know what has gone before and this may restrict your ability to move forward.

You may find yourself uncomfortable with change, feeling frustrated that past mistakes have not been incorporated into the new changes.

Chat to us to understand the ‘shadow’ sides of this strength and how to manage these at work and at home.

What’s Important to You and What Frustrates You

You need to understand what’s happened previously in projects, teams or organisations to understand where they are today.

You also find it easier to connect with people when you know a bit about their background.

You also enjoy understanding various art forms and understanding historical sights.

You can find it particularly frustrating when you do not know what happened previously, eg if colleagues say ‘We don’t need to focus on the past, we just need to improve things going forward’. These situations leave you feeling unprepared and restrict your ability to make informed decisions based on previous events and learning.

What You Contribute

Your greatest contribution lies in your extensive knowledge of past events related to specific issues or individuals. This depth of knowledge enables others around you to understand the complexities of current circumstances and make better decisions.