One of our key executive team members is burning out rapidly, but they score high on capability and fit our Core Values. How do we use conative tools to diagnose whether the source of their stress is a misalignment between their natural talents and the actual requirements of their seat?

Question

Tyler Smith · Accepted Answer

When a highly capable executive who fits your Core Values begins to burn out, founders often assume it is a motivation or emotional issue. Usually, it is a conative clash. They are using excessive mental energy to work against their natural, instinctive strengths.

To diagnose and resolve this, we use a three-step conative alignment audit.

First, review their Kolbe A™ Index to understand their natural method of operation. This is their hard-wired blueprint for how they solve problems and take action when striving.

Second, have them complete the Kolbe B™ Index. This measures their own perception of what their current seat requires of them. If there is a major discrepancy between their Kolbe A score and their Kolbe B score, they are experiencing severe cognitive strain. They are trying to force themselves to work in a way that feels unnatural.

Third, have the rest of the leadership team complete a Kolbe C™ Index for that specific seat. This defines the objective requirements of the role from the perspective of the business.

If the Kolbe A and Kolbe C results show a fundamental mismatch, the leader is in the wrong seat. You must adjust their responsibilities to align with their instinctive strengths or transition them to a seat where they can thrive, protecting both their health and your operational efficiency.