Motivating Others Through Difficult Times

“People often say that motivation doesn’t last. Well, neither does bathing—that’s why we recommend it daily.”
Zig Ziglar

Probably now more than ever, it is critical for leaders to successfully motivate others to perform their best each day. Many people’s hearts and minds are occupied with personal and financial worries that impede or distract them from focusing on what will ultimately lead to success. As leaders, we can motivate others to stay focused on what is important by helping them to forget about their worries and work hard in order to feel good about the contributions they are making. Below are some quick reminders of how we can successfully recapture the hearts and minds of those we lead by motivating them.

#1 Offer Encouragement

Things are so negative these days. Body language, small talk, water cooler conversation, the news, etc. are all full of pessimism. As leaders, we need to provide a spark of encouragement to everyone we interact with by building others up, and focusing on the good. We cannot get caught up in the negative talk that surrounds us; we must look for the positive and the potential in every person and in every situation. Consistently and frequently offering encouragement will motivate others to do their best.

#2 Be Reassuring

A lot of people are quickly allowing worries to overcome them, and many are losing confidence in their own abilities. As a leader, reassure others in their progress towards a goal or achievement. Let people know you notice when something is done correctly. Express your confidence in others’ abilities. Offering reassurance during difficult times will provide motivation to continue trying.

#3 Celebrate

When things go well, celebrate. When a goal is achieved, celebrate. When things are done correctly, celebrate. Whenever you find something positive or good, celebrate. A great way to motivate others and focus on the positive is to celebrate as often as possible. These do not have to be major celebrations for every little thing, but they can be quick and easy celebrations for a job well done. As the general population is focused on the bad, people are not finding many reasons to celebrate; provide it for them. Now more than ever, helping people to celebrate success will instantly boost confidence levels and motivate them to do better.

#4 Be Enthusiastic

Enthusiasm is contagious. If you are excited about something, others will become excited about it as well. As a leader, finding ways to be upbeat and positive each and every day will go a long way in motivating others.

#5 Be Grateful

As leaders, we must show gratitude for the efforts and contributions others are making. Be especially grateful to those who make your life or job easier each day. Expressing sincere gratitude every day will make you happier, and it will motivate others to do better. Being sincerely grateful is essential to successfully motivating others.

Now is the time for great leaders to prove themselves by successfully motivating others during these difficult times. It won’t be easy, but remembering the tips above will certainly help. Those leaders who are able to effectively motivate others during tough times will accomplish great things despite difficult circumstances that surround them.