I would consider that a valuable trait, especially if the employee could communicate potential snags he sees. He is likely to be able to handle larger or longer

I would consider that a valuable trait, especially if the employee could communicate potential snags he sees. He is likely to be able to handle larger or longer projects that require planning, and he is also more likely to have trouble with frequent small mundane projects. There are many people to fill the later. Many managers want employees to fit an exact role, even if they have a square peg and a round hole. One of the best managers I had the pleasure of working with was a former private investigator. He would see the trait of the employee that is causing friction, see how it could be used as an asset, and adapt the position or funnel the right work to that employee. I now manage in this way, myself.