Sharing Motivation Might Be Different Than You Think
Are you in the habit of sharing motivation? In other words, when you see something that motivates you, do you extend your hand in an attempt to inspire others? Does it work?
You can start with some questions? What gets you pumped up? What energizes you, springs you to action, and keeps you going even during extreme challenges?
Golden Rule and Music
Many people live by the golden rule. It’s actually very much appreciated by most people. It seems to make sense.
In essence, treat others as you would like to be treated.
That converts to, if this would motivate me, I’ll use that as a tool to motivate others.
Does this work? Sometimes.
The golden rule applied to motivation often runs out of steam quickly. Different people are motivated in different ways.
Some people claim that music motivates them. Cranking out a little Eminem might motivate some, but it probably won’t really be a hit with those who have Elevation Worship near the top of their playlist.
That’s okay. It just means that the inspiration or motivation comes from different places or styles. It may also be conditioned by values and beliefs. The theory that music motivates might be a good one, the same genre might not.
Whether it is music, sunshine, or a little friendly competition, what motivates one, won’t motivate all.
Sharing Motivation
People are motivated intrinsically or extrinsically. In a general sense, most people are some of both, yet they tend to favor one side or the other.
When it comes to the workplace and job performance it is always important to consider the motivational factors of the people. An extended hand for a path is quite a bit different from a forced hand.
Can you force motivation? Sure, but you may not like the long-term results. Forcing motivation happens by creating fear. Fear springs people to action but the long-term consequences seldom make it worthwhile.
Perhaps you need to tweak your mindset to searching for what motivates others rather than assuming what motivates you should work for everyone?
It is an easy trap to fall into.
There are plenty of ways to figure out what gets others moving. You may want to start by asking them. Which by the way, don’t be fooled by the money motivator response.
Money is the means to an end for most people. Support my family, buy a car, pay the rent, get groceries. The motivator is often something different from the end result.
-DEG
Need some help with workplace motivation? This virtual training seminar may be for you, Creating a Motivational Climate.
Dennis E. Gilbert is a business consultant, speaker (CSPTM), and culture expert. He is a five-time author and the founder of Appreciative Strategies, LLC. His business focuses on positive human performance improvement solutions through Appreciative Strategies®. Reach him through his website at Dennis-Gilbert.com or by calling +1 646.546.5553.
