Inspiration from the Inside Out
Pressuring people is the lazy leader’s method of motivation.
Anticipate disengagement once you begin pressuring people.
Inspire. Don’t pressure.
The more you pressure people, the more you need to pressure people.
3 Essentials of Inspiration
Inspired people challenge themselves.
#1. Believe in people.
Don’t stop believing because of faults and frailties. Realize you haven’t unleashed their genius yet.
#2. Define “better” collaboratively.
Don’t convince people you’re right. Explore “better” from their point of view.
When growth is desirable, energy comes from within.
#3. Ask challenging questions.
Genuine interest inspires people.
Don’t bark orders. Ask questions.
3 Questions That Ignite Inspiration
#1. With growth in mind, what do you need to let go?
Letting go feels like freedom. Freedom fuels ownership.
Eliminate trivialities.
Reject behaviors that aren’t working.
#2. If you continue doing the same things, where will you be in six months?
Clarity energizes.
Awareness precedes change.
Focus on fulfillment, effectiveness, and efficiency.
#3. How will things be better for others if you succeed? For yourself?
Craft a path forward that aligns with their drive to contribute.
Purpose fuels energy. (Not ease. Energy.)
Energy powers movement.
A Note on Heart
The power of questions begins with heart. Ignite inspiration by believing in the mission and the people.
Don’t manipulate by using questions as orders. Manipulation causes resistance.
Believe in their success.
What must be in place for leaders to ignite inspiration in others?
What questions help people find their inspiration?
Are You an Inspirational Leader? HBR Podcast
The answer to #2 (Where will you be in six months if you continue to do the same thing) is “Still in the same chair, just six months older.”
What each of us needs to determine is whether we are okay with that. Sometimes we need to change. But sometimes, that is the right place to be at that time.