Do you have that desire to not just finish a task, but to finish things really well? That’s the Genius of Tenacity at work! It’s all about seeing work through to completion, ensuring every detail meets the high standards you set from the start. People with this genius find deep satisfaction in executing with excellence.

The Double-Edged Sword of Tenacity

While incredibly valuable, like any strength, Tenacity can be misused. Understanding these common pitfalls helps individuals and leaders harness its power more effectively.

Common Pitfalls of Tenacity:

• Jumping to tactics too quickly: The urge to execute can sometimes lead to action before an idea has fully matured into a truly great solution.
• Over-prioritizing task completion: A laser focus on getting things done can, at times, lead to insensitivity to colleagues or overlooking important team dynamics.
• Rushing ideation: The “how are we going to get this done?” mindset can prematurely shift conversations, cutting short the vital time needed for good ideas to evolve into excellent ones.

Leading Those with the Genius of Tenacity

If you’re leading individuals who possess a strong Genius of Tenacity, understanding their needs will help them thrive and contribute their best work.

• Provide clear deadlines and outcomes—and commit to them: Tenacious individuals thrive on certainty. Frequent or questionable changes can be disheartening, creating doubt about the project’s importance and eroding trust.
• When changes are necessary, keep the vision and the “win” in front of them: Explain why the change matters. Help them connect the new direction to the larger purpose, reinforcing that their effort is still valuable.
• Show genuine appreciation—not just lip service: People driven by Tenacity need to truly believe the project is important and that their diligent effort is recognized and valued.

Leading the Activity of Tenacity Across Your Team

Even if Tenacity isn’t everyone’s natural genius, everyone plays a part in seeing work through. As a leader, you can cultivate a culture where “finishing well” is a shared value.

• Celebrate both the win and the effort: Acknowledge the successful outcome, but also the hard work, persistence, and dedication that went into achieving it.
• Frame every win in the context of your larger vision: When a victory feels disconnected from its purpose, you miss a crucial opportunity to inspire your team and build lasting momentum. Connect their accomplishments to the bigger picture.

Want to build a culture that finishes well without burning people out? What strategies have you found most effective in fostering tenacity and celebrating completion on your team?