Activity: Some Key Resources

Patrick Lencioni’s work on team dynamics has been widely used in ministry and marketplace settings alike. His “Ideal Team Player” model identifies the three core traits of a healthy team member: humble, hungry, and people smart. More recently, his “Working Genius” framework has helped leaders and teams understand how people contribute best by identifying where they naturally excel and where they struggle in the creative and execution process.

This assignment gives you a chance to explore both models and reflect on how you lead, follow, and function on a team.

Step 1: Research the Concepts (200 words)

Use a search engine or reliable AI tool to research these two frameworks. You can of course also buy the books either digitally or in paperback form.

• The Ideal Team Player: Define and briefly summarize Lencioni’s three virtues – Humble, Hungry, and Smart (people smart). What does each trait mean, and why are all three essential for healthy teams?
• The Six Types of Working Genius: Summarize the six types of Working Genius (Wonder, Discernment, Galvanizing, Enablement, Tenacity, and Invention). What does each one contribute to a team?

You may create a simple chart or bullets if helpful for clarity. Cite the source(s) you used (even if it's AI).

Step 2: Evaluate Yourself (200–300 words)

• Reflect honestly: Which of the three Ideal Team Player traits comes naturally to you? Which one challenges you the most? Share a short example for each.
• Take a free or simplified version of the Working Genius assessment (you may use summaries or online quizzes (remember that this is an informal self-assessment).
• Based on what you discover, what are your likely 2 Working Geniuses? What about your Frustrations or Competencies?
• Do you agree with the results? Why or why not?

Step 3: Ministry Application (200–300 words)

• How could these tools help improve team dynamics in a church or ministry setting?
• Imagine you're leading a staff or volunteer team. How would understanding your team’s working geniuses and their humble/hungry/smart profile help you assign roles, resolve tension, or build unity?
• How could this framework help you as a leader avoid burnout or empower others more effectively?