Commit to Your Zone of Genius
Break free from comfort zones and discover the work that is uniquely you
“I commit to living in my Zone of Genius, now and forever.” – Gay Hendricks
The Call to Your Genius
Many people live their lives trapped in what Gay Hendricks, author of The Big Leap, calls the "Zone of Excellence." It’s where you excel, where you’re celebrated, and where you find comfort. But excellence is a trap. It’s seductive, but it’s not where your true potential lies. Beyond excellence is your Zone of Genius — the space where your unique abilities and deepest passions merge to create extraordinary results and fulfillment.
To step into this zone, you must first acknowledge the other zones that hold you back.
The Zone of Incompetence includes tasks others can do far better.
The Zone of Competence encompasses activities you do well enough, but others can match.
Despite its allure, even the Zone of Excellence must eventually be left behind.
Only in your Zone of Genius can you find work that doesn’t feel like work, energizing you instead of draining you.
Finding your Zone of Genius requires courage and self-awareness. You must confront the fears, doubts, and "well-justified stories" that keep you tethered to comfort. Your inner voice, calling you toward this zone, urges you to long for something more. By listening, you move closer to unleashing your full potential.
Start by answering Hendricks’ key questions:
What do you most love to do?
What work do I do that doesn’t seem like work?
In my work, what produces the highest ratio of abundance and satisfaction to the amount of time spent?
What is my unique ability?
My Story
Two years ago, I thought deeply about what I wanted to focus my work on. In years past, I did what I needed to do for economic reasons, which did not fully align with my unique expertise and experience. As I transitioned from a corporate CIO to building a solo venture, I asked myself whether what I was doing each day aligned with my Zone of Genius. This practice forced me to identify and embrace it. Once I got a feel for living in my Zone of Genius, there was no going back.
Daily Inner Quest
Answer the questions above to guide you to your Zone of Genius. Adopt the ZoG mantra: "I expand in abundance, success, and love every day, as I inspire those around me to do the same." Operating in your Zone of Genius sets you free.
