Integrators: The Drama Killers Every Business Needs
During an EOS® implementation, I encountered a leadership team with immense potential—strong business model, solid offering, capable team—but they were crumbling from within. Despite the right ingredients, misaligned roles, lack of accountability, and internal friction were dragging the company down.
At the heart of this dysfunction? A familiar dynamic: the Visionary-Integrator relationship in disarray.
The Visionary vs. The Integrator
Visionaries are idea machines. They see the future, chase opportunity, and operate at 30,000 feet. But they often lack interest in the day-to-day mechanics of running the business.
That’s where the Integrator steps in—second-in-command, boots on the ground, driving execution. They keep the team aligned and the business moving forward between quarterly planning sessions.
When this relationship thrives, so does the business. But when blurred lines, ego, and miscommunication set in, dysfunction follows fast.
Enter: Karpman’s Drama Triangle
To better understand the chaos, I turned to Karpman’s Drama Triangle—a psychological model that identifies three toxic roles:
- The Persecutor: Critical, controlling, and intolerant.
- The Victim: Helpless, frustrated, and disengaged.
- The Rescuer: Always stepping in, avoiding their own problems by solving others'.
In many organizations, the Visionary unknowingly slips into the role of the Persecutor—frustrated, bypassing processes, disrupting progress. The leadership team becomes the Victim—confused, silent, or emotionally checked out. The Integrator? Often ends up playing the Rescuer, enabling dysfunction by smoothing over problems instead of confronting them.
This dynamic isn’t just unproductive—it’s dangerous.
But there’s hope.
The Integrator’s Power: Breaking the Drama Cycle
A strong Integrator doesn’t get caught in the triangle. They break it.
Here are eight powerful tools you can use to do just that:
1. Learn to Say No
Visionaries are idea factories. But not every idea needs to be executed—especially not mid-quarter. Your job is to execute the agreed-upon plan. Stay focused. Say no. Deliver results.
2. Hold Monthly Same Page Meetings
These one-on-one check-ins with your Visionary are crucial. Use them to align on priorities, recalibrate when needed, and make space for honest conversation—outside the regular team meetings.
3. Speak Openly and Honestly
Don’t hold back. Tension between Visionary and Integrator is normal. What’s not normal is letting it fester. Use the IDS™ (Identify, Discuss, Solve) process to tackle issues head-on.
4. Don’t Be Afraid to Leave the Seat
If you're stuck in a Rescuer role and it’s dragging you down, have the courage to walk away. You’re not helping anyone by staying in the wrong role for the wrong reasons.
5. Avoid Emotional Engagement
Stay calm, objective, and focused on solutions. If emotions are running high, hit pause. Drama feeds on emotional reactions—cut off its oxygen.
6. Never Rescue the Visionary
Stop cleaning up after them. Hold the Visionary accountable to the process, just like everyone else. Enable structure, not chaos.
7. Use Data to Drive Decisions
Let the numbers do the talking. Scorecards, Rocks, and Measurables provide objectivity that neutralizes drama. Use them religiously.
8. Own the Outcome
The team reports to you. You are the executor of the vision. If the company fails to deliver, that’s on you—own it, fix it, and lead the way forward.
Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone
Being an Integrator can feel like walking a tightrope. But remember, you are not there to be liked—you are there to make the company succeed. When you stay in your seat, hold firm boundaries, and lead with integrity, you become the force that moves the company forward—drama-free.
