Motivation is a powerful thing. When we are not motivated, it is exponentially harder to get things done. As leaders, we need to understand what motivates us, or we can quickly become frustrated and less productive.
One of the most important factors in motivation is answering “why” rather than simply “what.” We asked a seasoned leader how he stays motivated. His first advice was to work in your areas of strength. Then, since none of us can be good at everything, identify the weaknesses you need to grow in and the ones you need to compensate for.
Sometimes that means delegating to someone who is strong where you are weak. But what if there is no one available to do something that is critical, but doesn’t naturally motivate you? This is where your “why” becomes important.
For example, let’s say you are good at planning and delivering a quality product, but you are not a natural salesperson and don’t have someone else to fill that role. Take time to consider why you are providing that product or service in the first place. Why is it needed? Why would someone want it? Understanding why your customer needs what you offer can change the way you communicate about it. If you are only thinking about the benefits to yourself or your company, that will likely be evident too.
So why is what you do important? Are you trying to make the world a better place? Are you meeting a genuine need or helping others succeed?
Some leaders try to simply “gut it out” when they feel unmotivated. But leaders of impact take the time to look beyond themselves and consider who they are serving and why it matters. There can be tremendous motivation in that.
But it may be worth going one step deeper. What is underneath your “why”? What ultimately makes something worth your time, energy, or sacrifice?
At LeaderImpact, we believe the best leadership growth goes beyond what we accomplish professionally. It involves growing personally, professionally, and spiritually, and being willing to examine what is shaping the way we live and lead.
For Christians, that deeper “why” is shaped by Jesus and his example of a life focused on serving others. Wherever you are spiritually, it is a question worth considering: What is shaping your “why,” and is it shaping you into the kind of leader and person you want to become?