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Today, we’re diving into a topic that I think so many of us struggle with: how do we find joy and energy in our work, especially when burnout feels all too real?
My guest today has spent his career helping people unlock the key to loving what they do, and he’s created a simple, yet powerful framework to make that possible.
Learn more about your Working Genius with code GOALDIGGER here!
Pat Lencioni is a best-selling author and renowned speaker, and his work has helped businesses of all sizes transform the way they think about productivity, teamwork, and leadership.
His latest book introduces a model that’s designed to help individuals and teams tap into their natural talents and create more fulfilling, effective work environments.
But this conversation is about so much more than productivity. It’s about understanding yourself, recognizing what brings you energy, and using that knowledge to not only thrive in your career but to help others do the same.
Patrick is the mastermind behind the ‘Working Genius’ model, and today, we’ll be pulling back the curtain on this game-changing concept. Whether you’re leading a team, running your own business, or just looking to find more purpose in your day-to-day, this episode is for you.
Click here and use code GOALDIGGER at checkout to get 20% off your $25 Working Genius assessment!
Whether you’re a solopreneur wearing all the hats or leading a team through a busy season, this episode is going to help you understand the why behind your fatigue, the what of your natural gifts, and the how to start doing more of what actually energizes you.
The Six Types of Working Genius
Patrick’s Working Genius model identifies six core types of work that are essential to any project, business, or team. Here’s a deeper look at each one, in the order work generally flows:
1. Wonder
This genius is all about asking the big questions and noticing gaps or opportunities that others miss. People with the genius of Wonder are the ones who constantly think, “Is there a better way?” They live in the clouds, imagining what could be possible. They might not always have the answers, but they excel at identifying when something is off or ripe for improvement. If you have this genius, your gift is curiosity and ideation at the highest level.
2. Invention
These are the creative problem solvers. If you find joy in coming up with new solutions and original ideas, you might have the genius of Invention. It’s not just about being clever—it’s about developing tangible innovations in response to problems or opportunities. This genius shines when someone else poses a question or need, and the inventor eagerly dives in to dream up fresh, unique answers.
3. Discernment
People with this genius have a gift for intuition and judgment. They can evaluate ideas quickly and effectively, often without needing all the data or research. Discerners are the team members who instinctively know if something is right or wrong, or whether it’s ready to move forward. This was one of my top geniuses, and it’s saved me from chasing a lot of not-so-great ideas.
4. Galvanizing
If you get energy from rallying people and getting them excited about an idea or mission, you might be a Galvanizer. These folks love to initiate action and are often seen as natural motivators. They excel at taking a vetted idea and mobilizing others to move on it. They keep momentum going and ensure everyone is on the same page and moving forward.
5. Enablement
This genius is all about support and responsiveness. People with Enablement want to jump in and help bring others’ ideas to life. They don’t necessarily need to lead or create the vision themselves, but they find fulfillment in serving the needs of others and playing a supportive role. Having this genius in your life or team can be a game-changer.
6. Tenacity
Tenacity is the genius of follow-through and finishing. If you can’t rest until something is complete, this might be one of your top types. People with this genius thrive on checking the boxes, seeing projects through, and knowing their work made a difference. They value completion and take pride in delivering final results.
Get 20% off your $25 Working Genius assessment with code GOALDIGGER!
Why You Might Be Burnt Out
If you’re spending most of your time in the types of work that fall outside your natural genius, it’s like pouring coffee into a cup with a hole in the bottom.
You lose energy fast, and burnout becomes inevitable. For example, my lowest scoring areas are Wonder and Enablement.
I’ve learned to appreciate and lean on others whose genius lies there, especially my team member Marisa, who complements me in all the best ways.
Applying the Model to Life and Business
Patrick emphasized that this framework isn’t just for corporate teams. Solopreneurs can use it to figure out who their first hire should be or what to outsource. Teams can reconfigure roles to let each member shine. And families? Oh yes. Understanding your spouse or child’s working genius can radically transform your home life.
It also builds a shared language. Imagine saying, “I’m just wondering and inventing right now” to your partner or teammate, instead of launching a whole new project they think is already underway. It saves confusion and opens up space for everyone to stay in their zone of genius.
Should You Improve Your Weaknesses?
Nope, not according to Patrick! He says focusing on your frustrations drains you and pulls you further away from your true self. Instead, you should lean into your genius and partner with others who complement you. It’s not about fixing your flaws; it’s about freeing yourself up to flourish.
Taking the Working Genius assessment isn’t just a nice-to-have—it might be the key to transforming how you work, lead, and live. When we understand ourselves better, we stop forcing roles that drain us and start designing lives that energize and fulfill us. I genuinely believe this model can change the game for entreprereurs, leaders, and families alike.
