[January 30, 2018] A number of years ago I had the opportunity to witness new Army recruits training at Fort Benning, Georgia. The Drill Sergeants were yelling at the recruits for them to get into formation and it was hard not to notice the look of fear on their faces. Motivation was being provided by the U.S. Army in a long-ago tested method of intimidation.
Motivation, however, is at its best when it comes from within a person (we call this “self-motivation”) and leaders should take notice of signs that show it. When leaders see motivation they need to not just encourage it but develop it to ensure the person continues to push themselves instead of needing external motive.
Here are a few signs of self-motivation that leaders should notice:
1. Unsolicited Feedback: When folks are willing to come to a leader and give them information, advice, or even to complain, there is a level of trust and confidence that shows an employee is dedicated and loyal. Never should this be overlooked and, in fact, when people stop coming to a leader it is an indication they have lost confidence in that leader or have lost their personal incentives.
2. Positive Attitude: One of the most noticeable signs of self-motivation is a positive, helpful, generous, cooperative attitude. Leaders should look for those who have a strong determination to succeed and do their best.
3. Teamwork: Those who work well within teams and get along with others in such a setting also are demonstrating self-motivation. As with other signs of it, leaders should help create and maintain teams where improved workplace conditions can be created.
4. Results: When the job needs to get results, those most motivated to “get ‘er done” are clearly the most motivated. Senior leaders often use this as the prime indicator of self-motivation but other signs are just as effective in making such a determination.
5. Reliability: Those folks who are at work everyday, on time, and work hard show a high degree of self-motivation. They are willing to volunteer more time to complete a project and go the extra mile for the organization. They also do work without being asked or convinced.
“Never Give Up” Philosophy:
“Never, never, never give up.” – Winston Churchill, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, statesman, army officer, and writer
There are more signs, of course, that point to good self-motivation. These are the most common. Great leaders can quickly recognize and encourage such it and they can by practice, focus, and determination themselves. They can do so because great leaders are the epitome of self-motivation themselves.
[Don’t forget to “Like” the Leader Maker on our Facebook Page.]
Thank you for bringing out the keys to effective leadership. “Results” will, of course, speak for itself. I suggest adding that those employees who are aggressive at ‘self development’ are also those with the most motivated.