Why do I even show up for work?

Let’s try a little experiment. Take two un-popped bags of microwave popcorn. Take one bag which we will label Current Reality. The second bag we will label Desired Reality. Now, Take the first bag (current reality) and place it in the microwave for 30 seconds. Once thirty seconds has elapsed, wait one minute and repeat the process until the bag of popcorn is completely popped. Next, take the second bag (desired reality) and follow the directions on the package step-by-step. Which process required more work?

The point of this experiment is to demonstrate the importance of motivation and maintaining motivation within your team whatever your team’s goal. It is easier and takes less effort to maintain team motivation then to try and re-motivate the team every thirty days. By maintaining motivation you reach the desired goal more quickly with greater overall satisfaction.

Consider trying a few of these suggestions in order to help maintain motivation:

Engage all team members in the task or situation.

Use a novel or unexpected approach to maintain attention and focus.

Avoid using tactics that cause anxiety and fear. (You want to be approachable with good and bad news.)

Clearly state and emphasize job responsibilities.

Relate leadership and cooperation aspects of the task.

Recap prior information regarding the task and consistently share new information with your team. (No team member should be in the dark in any aspect of the desired goal.)

Set challenging, yet achievable goals for each team member. (Challenges stimulate lateral thinking and can create excitement for task accomplishment.)

So each time you face a new motivation challenge keep these suggestions in mind. You might just inspire someone today!