The Working Genius Podcast with Patrick Lencioni

Krista Kotrla, a consultant with The Table Group, specializes in transforming healthy conflict into clear commitments for leaders. In this conversation, she breaks down the 'decision line' concept, emphasizing how clarity trumps certainty in decision-making. Krista shares practical tools like end-of-meeting discipline and highlights the importance of decisiveness in leadership. They discuss real-world applications of these concepts and how storytelling can enhance team alignment and execution, making decisions more effective and engaging.

Galvanizing is a uniquely disruptive genius that inspires action and change within teams. The hosts discuss how this talent cannot thrive in isolation, influencing others directly. They share real-life examples, showcasing how even unpopular actions can lead to positive outcomes when driven by galvanizers. Listeners learn how combining galvanizing with other genius types boosts team momentum and the importance of recognizing this ability to foster a thriving organizational culture. Misunderstandings around galvanizing are clarified, highlighting its true power.

Ever called something 'easy' without considering others' struggles? This discussion dives into the mischief of labeling tasks, exploring how it can discourage those who find them challenging. Discover how working within your genius can lead to fulfillment, while also recognizing individual strengths. Personal stories reveal the balance between skill mastery and joy in work, emphasizing the importance of valuing diverse talents. Ultimately, embracing our differences can foster a more supportive environment for everyone.

Dive into the fascinating world of Enablement and its critical role in team dynamics. Discover how it differs from mere people-pleasing and learn why it’s essential for collaboration. With insights from Tracy Noble, explore the balance between offering support and maintaining decisive leadership. Hear personal anecdotes that highlight how Enablement energizes relationships and fosters creativity. Unpack the importance of discernment in navigating this nuanced trait for optimal team cohesion.

Explore how understanding the difference between uppercase and lowercase genius can boost your contributions at work. The hosts delve into applying your strengths in diverse contexts, enhancing team dynamics through self-awareness. They discuss maintaining focus on collective goals and the balance of contributions within teams. Discover how everyday tasks can inspire creativity and joy in your work, leading to more fulfilling collaborations. A shared language around these concepts fosters trust and intentional teamwork.

Explore the intriguing dynamics of the Fundamental Attribution Error and how it skews our perceptions of others’ actions. Discover how different Working Genius traits can lead to misunderstandings in the workplace and at home. Patrick and Cody shed light on how Wonderers, Inventors, Discerners, Galvanizers, Enablers, and Tenacious individuals might be misjudged. They emphasize the importance of empathy, understanding, and constructive feedback to foster collaboration and strengthen relationships.

Explore the intriguing relationship between the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and the Six Types of Working Genius. Discover how MBTI reveals your personality 'noun,' while Working Genius highlights your action-oriented 'verb.' Delve into real examples showcasing how different geniuses can emerge, even among those who share the same MBTI type. Unpack the nuances of personality dimensions affecting communication and decision-making, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness for better team dynamics and collaboration.

What if quitting your job isn’t the answer? The discussion dives into the real reasons behind the desire to escape work, focusing on the importance of aligning one's talents with their job. Retirement often symbolizes freedom, but it might lead to purposelessness if not approached thoughtfully. The concept of Working Genius is highlighted as a tool for diagnosing dissatisfaction and discovering joy in work. Lastly, the hosts remind us that work should be a gift, offering ways to optimize roles for greater fulfillment.

Dive into the transformative concept of preemptive vulnerability! Leaders can build trust by admitting their weaknesses and asking for help before they face crises. Discover how sharing flaws fosters deeper connections among teams and encourages a culture of openness. The hosts share real-life examples of leaders who’ve benefited from owning their shortcomings early, highlighting that vulnerability can create a ripple effect throughout organizations. Explore practical tips on embracing authenticity for better collaboration and understanding.

Why is it dangerous to "fake it till you make it" when it comes to your Working Genius?In episode 85 of the Working Genius Podcast, Pat and Cody explore the pitfalls of "faking it till you make it," particularly in the context of the six Working Geniuses. They discuss how pretending to possess certain geniuses—especially Galvanizing, Enabling, and Tenacity—can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction, even if it seems successful in the short term. They also emphasize the importance of aligning work with your natural geniuses for long-term fulfillment and success. Topics explored in this episode: (00:51) Faking It Undermines Team Trust* Faking a role outside your genius may temporarily fool others but drains energy and joy.(3:48) When Observation Misleads* People often mistake visible productivity for true capability and fulfillment.* Internal processes like Discerning or Inventing can't be copied just by watching someone do the work.(7:36) Success in the Wrong Game* Achieving mastery in an area outside your genius often leads to burnout, not true fulfillment.* Mimicking Tenacity or Enablement might bring professional praise but leaves people feeling empty.(11:24) Misalignment at Work* Many early career roles overvalue G.E.T. work, unintentionally alienating people with W.I.D. geniuses.* Discovering the Working Genius framework helps reframe these challenges as fixable, not personal flaws.(15:12) The Cost of Faking It* People often carry unnecessary guilt when they struggle in roles that don't match their genius.* Leaders can free people from burnout by helping them realign with their natural gifts.A note for new listeners/viewers: In this episode, Pat and Cody dive deep into the Six Types of Working Genius, a model that helps you discover your natural gifts and thrive in your work and life. If you’re new to our framework, perhaps consider checking out some earlier episodes of The Working Genius Podcast. Or, if you’re interested, you can take The Six Types of Working Genius assessment, which is the fastest and simplest way to discover your natural gifts and thrive at work: https://www.workinggenius.com/about/assessment Refresher: The initials discussed in this episode refer to: W = Wonder. I = Invention.D = Discernment.G = Galvanizing.E = Enablement.T = Tenacity.This episode of The Working Genius Podcast with Patrick Lencioni is brought to you by The Table Group: https://www.tablegroup.com. We teach leaders how to make work more effective and less dysfunctional. We also help their employees be more fulfilled and less miserable. Subscribe to The Working Genius Podcast on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/4iNz6Yn), Spotify (https://spoti.fi/4iGGm8u), and YouTube (https://bit.ly/Working-Genius-YouTube). Follow Pat Lencioni on https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-lencioni-orghealth and http://www.youtube.com/@PatrickLencioniOfficial, and https://x.com/patricklencioni.Be sure to check out our other podcast, At The Table with Patrick Lencioni, on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/4hJKKSL), Spotify (https://spoti.fi/4l1aop0), and YouTube (https://bit.ly/At-The-Table-YouTube). Let us know your feedback via podcast@tablegroup.com. This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co.