5 Simple Ways to Become a Master Motivator

“A pat on the back is worth a lot more than a kick in the fanny.”
Charles Nirenberg

One of the most common ways to motivate others continues to be the old carrot and stick philosophy. This general philosophy entails a reward being dangled in front of someone in hopes that it will motivate them to do what you want them to do. Though this philosophy may be useful at times, there are other more effective and easier ways to motivate people. Below are a few suggestion that will help us break away from the old methods and make us master motivators in today’s environment.

#1 Look for the Good

Many managers persistently point out and correct bad behavior. However, good leaders have learned that positive attention and encouragement is more valuable in producing great results. Indeed, offering encouragement and pointing out the good is much easier than trying to lead someone to change by pointing out the bad. For this reason, positive reinforcement and simple recognition for the good people do works.

#2 Notice

Often praise and recognition is held on to or delayed until a job is completed, however people like to know that what they are doing now is being noticed and is important. For this reason, it is motivating when we are recognized and reassured in our progress toward the completion of a task. Learning to recognize others not only at the end but also during a project will motivate them to do better.

#3 Celebrate

When projects are completed or a goal is met, make sure to celebrate. Providing a sense of accomplishment and victory through celebration will motivate others to achieve more. Quickly or half-heartedly acknowledging an accomplishment or not celebrating a goal at all once it is achieved will create a feeling of insignificance.  And this will quickly lower motivation.

#4 Enthusiasm

Being enthusiastic motivates others. When you have energy and are excited about what is going on, even during stressful times, others will feel it and will join you.  Having positive energy and enthusiasm will help brighten everyone’s day.

#5 Express Appreciation

Finally, show appreciation for a job well done. Let people know often how much you appreciate what they are doing. And share with them how what they are doing helps you personally because people want to feel they are helping others. Expressing sincere and frequent appreciation will go a long way in motivating those you lead.

Rather than simply using the old carrot and stick philosophy, use these simple ideas to motivate others.  Looking for the good, noticing, celebrating, being enthusiastic and expressing appreciation will make you a master motivator in today’s environment and they will have a huge impact not only on others but also on yourself.