What’s Your Kryptonite?

People like to ask, “what’s your superpower?” It’s a good question. It helps me think about my strengths and the unique value I can bring to society.

Then I got thinking… what’s my kryptonite? What is the one thing that takes away all my powers, thwarts my efforts, or hijacks my best intention?

We all have weaknesses and we’re great at listing them off, constantly reminding ourselves of the things we aren’t good at. Kryptonite is the killer, though.

Kryptonite isn’t just a weakness, it’s way worse. It saps away all your strengths, negates them, and makes you feeble. For me, it is impatience. When impatience comes in the room, I falter, stumble, and fall into a mess on the floor.

As an example, I can usually establish a repour with people quickly, create a connection, and start building a relationship. I truly enjoy connecting to others and learning about them as a person. However, when I get impatient, I get transaction oriented. I just want the person to get to the point. There’s no connection, no relationship.

I could give you hundreds of other examples – with my kids, my spouse, extended family, coworkers, friends, and even the animals. Impatience neutralizes my superpowers and leaves regret, shame, and remorse.

Just like you need to identify superpowers and lean into them, you need to identify your kryptonite and avoid it. What is that thing that sucks away your powers? Name it, know it, and develop strategies for keeping it far away.

For impatience, it is simple things. I need to get a good night’s sleep so I’m not tired. I need to eat right so I’m healthy and not hungry. I need to practice mindfulness so I am self-aware of my thoughts and emotions.

It doesn’t need to be complicated. Kryptonite isn’t something to be analyzed or contemplated, just avoided. Pick one thing and identify a couple strategies for avoiding it. You’ll grow more confident that your superpower is real and ready to be used in the world.