I asked ChatGPT for advice on how to work in a government agency as an "ideas" guy, specifically, with the "Wonder and Invention" strengths in the Working Genius assessment.

The advice was actually decent!

Specifically, I've used 1, 3, and 7 in my work.

The thing is though, my nature will always clash with working in a large bureaucracy. There are some projects that are better than others for me, but it's not sustainable long term. This is why I must pursue other projects that I find more rewarding and compatible in parallel.

If you're an aspiring 1099, there is a good chance you have an "incompatible" personality too. But it doesn't mean you can't do it for at least a little while. I'd ask ChatGPT for some ideas along these lines to leverage your strengths and minimize your weaknesses.

I've pasted the text below.

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As someone with strong Wonder and Invention Working Genius strengths, you likely excel at exploring possibilities, asking big-picture questions, and generating creative solutions. These traits can make you an asset in a government agency, but certain obstacles may arise due to the structured and often bureaucratic nature of such organizations. Here are some potential challenges you might encounter:

1. Resistance to Change

• Obstacle: Government agencies often have established systems, policies, and procedures. Your innovative ideas may face resistance from those who prefer to maintain the status quo or adhere strictly to regulations.
• How to Overcome: Frame your ideas in terms of compliance with existing policies and the potential for improving efficiency or cost-effectiveness. Emphasize incremental change to avoid overwhelming stakeholders.

2. Slow Decision-Making

• Obstacle: Bureaucratic decision-making processes can be slow, requiring multiple levels of approval for even minor changes. This can be frustrating for someone who thrives on generating and implementing new ideas.
• How to Overcome: Develop patience and work on "selling" your ideas with clear, concise presentations that address risks, benefits, and alignment with organizational goals.

3. Lack of Immediate Buy-In

• Obstacle: Your ideas may be seen as too "out there" or risky in environments that prioritize stability and predictability.
• How to Overcome: Use data and pilot programs to build trust in your ideas. Present your concepts in a way that emphasizes practicality and tangible outcomes.

4. Overemphasis on Policy and Compliance

• Obstacle: Your natural inclination to explore possibilities might clash with the strict focus on policies and compliance in government work.
• How to Overcome: Align your innovative ideas with existing compliance frameworks and show how they can streamline or enhance adherence to policies.

5. Difficulty with Follow-Through

• Obstacle: As someone who might struggle with Enablement and Tenacity, you may find it challenging to see projects through to completion in environments that demand extensive follow-up and documentation.
• How to Overcome: Partner with colleagues who excel in follow-through and execution. Focus on providing the vision and big-picture strategy while delegating detailed tasks.

6. Navigating Political Dynamics

• Obstacle: Government agencies can have complex political dynamics, which might hinder your ability to implement innovative ideas.
• How to Overcome: Build strong relationships across departments and understand the political landscape. Identify allies who share your vision and can advocate for your ideas.

7. Balancing Big Ideas with Practical Needs

• Obstacle: Your tendency to think big might not always align with the immediate, practical concerns of the agency.
• How to Overcome: Ground your ideas in the agency’s specific goals and constraints. Break your visionary ideas into smaller, actionable steps.

8. Limited Resources

• Obstacle: Government agencies often operate under tight budgets and limited resources, which can constrain your ability to execute innovative projects.
• How to Overcome: Focus on low-cost, high-impact solutions and demonstrate how your ideas can save resources or increase efficiency over time.

By understanding these obstacles and preparing strategies to address them, you can channel your strengths in Wonder and Invention effectively, even in the more structured and constrained environment of a government agency.

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