7 strategies to overcome frustration, burnout and low performance
The Six Types of Working Genius, as identified by Patrick Lencioni, are a framework that helps individuals understand their unique strengths and weaknesses in the workplace. While each type of genius brings valuable skills to the table, it is important to recognize and address any weaknesses or frustrations that may arise from these traits. We all have at least one area that is either a blind spot or a pain point in our lowest areas of work known as our frustrations.
Very high functioning individuals will have the highest level of performance within their frustrations. We can call those mild annoyances. However, every job is a 6 letter job meaning we all have to work in our frustrations so it is important to find ways to limit the impact these areas of work have on our performance.
Lebron James was not a good 3 point shooter, but he improved. He will never be Steph Curry or Malik Monk, but it isn’t a glaring weakness anymore.
Here are seven key strategies to help overcome these challenges:
#1 Self-awareness: The first step in addressing weaknesses and frustrations associated with the Six Types of Working Genius is to cultivate self-awareness. Take the time to reflect on your own strengths and weaknesses in each of the six types. Identify areas where you may struggle or feel frustrated, and be honest with yourself about your limitations. This self-awareness will help you better understand how to address these challenges.
#2 Collaboration: Knowing who is on your team and how to collaborate more effectively with them to leverage their high competencies and geniuses when appropriate. Even just getting advice on their approach to things can be very beneficial.
Remember that no one is strong in all six types of working genius. Embrace the diversity of skills and perspectives within your team and leverage the strengths of others to compensate for your own weaknesses. Collaborate with colleagues who excel in areas where you struggle, and offer your own strengths in return. By working together and supporting each other, you can overcome individual limitations and achieve greater success as a team.
#3 Reframing how you perceive your frustrations:
We can all get stressed at times within our areas of frustration. Our thinking can also become skewed to the negative as well. Reframing refutes the negative perspectives and thinking that can slow us down and stress us out.
#4 Building micro habits around our frustrations:
Work within our frustrations can feel very daunting. This can lead us to procrastinate, avoid or do low quality work. Micro habits allow us to not rely on willpower and motivation to overcome our frustrations. Instead, we use consistent, small, disciplined positive steps to create momentum and behavior change.
#5 Deep, focused thought: We are naturally more effective task switchers in our top 3 areas of strength. Our frustrations leave something to be desired in that area. DFT is the practice of reducing distractions so you can focus solely on your area of frustration with 100% of your attention. Wonder, Invention and Discernment need DFT time to thrive whether it is a Genius, Competency or Frustration.
#6 Seek feedback: In addition to self-reflection, seek feedback from colleagues, supervisors, or mentors. Ask for honest assessments of your performance in each of the six types of genius. This external perspective can provide valuable insights into areas where you may need to improve or develop new skills. Be open to constructive criticism and use it as an opportunity for growth. Many of us have blind spots others can help us become aware of.
#7 Skill development: Once you have identified areas of weakness or frustration, focus on developing your skills in those areas. Take advantage of training opportunities, workshops, or online resources to enhance your abilities in the six types of genius. Set specific goals for improvement and track your progress over time. By actively working to strengthen your weaknesses, you can become a more well-rounded and effective team member. We need to become competent in our frustrations, but just like Lebron’s three pointer never being Malik Monk’s….play to your strengths.
In conclusion, the Six Types of Working Genius offer a valuable framework for understanding and leveraging your unique strengths in the workplace. By using strategies like cultivating self-awareness, reframing your perceptions, leveraging micro habits, spending time in deep focused thought, seeking feedback, developing your skills, and collaborating with others, you can overcome weaknesses and frustrations associated with these traits. Embrace the opportunity for growth and improvement and continue to strive for competence in your frustrations, proficiency in your competencies and excellence in your geniuses.
