How Resources & Resourcefulness Differ

One word that you will hear almost everyday in every office or work environment in America is resources. Whether it's a startup communicating the need for more resources to their shareholders, or an established corporation admonishing executives about dwindling resources, the word gets tossed around - often without pause for consideration or implication.

 

Resources are simply supplies. They include, but are not limited to, money, materials, or staff (hence the term, "human resources"). On a conscious level we know what resources are. The word doesn't carry complexity, and thus, does not warrant explanation.

 

Resourcefulness is not as readily understood. It means to effectively utilize one's resources. It's often the lack of resourcefulness (rather than a lack of resources) that catalyze shortcomings.

 

So few people are adept at being resourceful that I've often wondered if it should be listed as one of psychologist Howard Gardner's multiple intelligences. But I think it has less to do with intelligence, and more to do with an awareness and willingness to acknowledge that we lack certain resources that are vital in accomplishing our goals.

Whether you view resourcefulness as a form of intelligence, a habit, or a skill, there's no denying that (better) resourcefulness can - and will - accelerate your growth and success.

Speaker Joel Turman offers insights into resourcefulness below.