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When exploring the core needs that drive motivation, the three essential motivators are: structure, recognition, and stimulus. It’s important to note that while everyone requires all three, the degree to which we need them varies from person to person. The key to sustained motivation lies in balancing these needs based on individual preferences.
Leaders should not aim to provide equal amounts of structure, recognition, and stimulus to every team member. Instead, individuals must reflect on their own needs, take ownership of them, and communicate them to their leaders, using these three questions as a guide:
Leaders, in turn, are responsible for creating an environment where these needs can be met, enabling team members to show up motivated, energised, and ready to perform at their best.
Let’s unpack each of these motivators:
For those who crave structure, a well-defined environment provides security and orientation. In teams, structure is essential for productivity and can be achieved through:
For those who seek validation, recognition is a powerful motivator. Acknowledgment fuels motivation in several ways:
For those who thrive on challenges, maintaining engagement requires continuous stimulation. Teams motivated by stimulus need opportunities for growth and creativity. This can be achieved through:
Ultimately, motivation is a shared responsibility. While leaders play a crucial role in creating an environment where people can thrive, individuals must take responsibility for understanding their needs and communicating them effectively.
Motivation isn't something a leader can simply hand out — it’s a collaborative effort that teams must cultivate within themselves, with the leader providing the tools and environment to make it possible.