Everyone is an expert at something. But not everyone knows how to identify their expertise or how to profit from that expertise.

In a recent survey I conducted, the most often asked question about how to profit from your expertise was: "How do I identify my unique expertise?"

Defining your expertise tends to be one of the biggest stumbling blocks for most entrepreneurs and would-be experts. There are five simple steps anyone can follow to define their expertise.

Step 1. Candidly, as yourself this question: "What am I really good at?" Make a list of 40-50 things that come to mind. Write them on a sheet of paper. Let this be a free-flowing brainstorm session in which you capture every thought you have without editing or judging your thoughts.

Step 2. Candidly, ask at least seven other people who know you well: "What am I really good at?" List 40-50 things that they suggest. You may get 10 suggestions from some people and only one or two from others. Write every suggestion on a sheet of paper. Be careful not to influence this input at all. Just capture as many of the thoughts as possible. This step can be done in conversation or by email. You may find that email is more objective. I find it best to do a combination of email and conversation.

Step 3. Compare the two lists for any common points. List those common points on a third sheet of paper.

Step 4. Now that you have a list of the things that you, as well as others, think you are good at, it is time to narrow the list to just three items. Focus on the things that you are most passionate about on a daily basis. This is where the juice is and where you will find inspiration to for building a sustainable business. When you read this short list you will likely have a visceral reaction to the top three points. I use the "goose bump" test -- if I get goosebumps when I think about something, I know I am on track.

Step 5. Now for the finale...Pick the one thing that will inevitably make you your first and easiest dollar!

Working through this 5-step process will provide you with a giant boost in confidence. And, you will be ready to claim your expertise and build an expertise-driven business.