In our Purpose-Driven Success Workshop we highlighted the disconnection between personal motivation and company or team targets. It is important that our personal traits, beliefs and self-motivating interests align with your work.
1. Find the "Why"
Before we know if the company targets align, we have to find our personal motivation:
Understand your purpose: How does your private interests and main motivations in life align with your daily work?
Check your beliefs: Does any of the long-term targets of the company align with your beliefs and how you want to spend and contribute in your life?
Have fun in work: Check what gives you joy and meaning in your private life and if some parts of that are reflected in your work.

Case Study 1: From Bank Apprentice to Start-up VP to Finance Director and back to Project Manager & Consultant - my personal motivation in the workplace
After a career into VP & Director positions, I found out that I am most happy in cleaning things up, be hands-on and coordinating projects. I rather be a consultant & speaker than sitting in long and political board meetings with staff to do the job.

2. Connect to the "Why"
After we find our personal motivation in the workplace, we can connect to the company:
Understand the bigger picture: How does your work contribute to the company's mission and overall goals? See beyond the immediate task and connect it to the impact it has on the company, customers, or the world.
Find meaning in your role: Even seemingly small tasks contribute to something larger. Reflect on how your work makes a difference, even in a small way.
Align with company values: Does your company stand for something you believe in? Connecting with the company's values can provide a strong sense of purpose.
Case Study 2: Use Objectives & Key Results (OKRs) to understand & explain the purpose of key indicators and tasks:
Instead of giving your teams just numbers as KPIs or KRs, explain them with an objective what they are supposed to do the next 3-6 months and connect it to the North Star or Strategy of your company. Give your team members a purpose for their daily actions to motivate them:

3. Be in Charge to create a meaningful job:
a. Focus on Growth and Development
Set personal goals: What do you want to achieve in your role? How can your work help you grow professionally and personally?
Seek challenges: Don't shy away from new responsibilities or opportunities to learn. Stepping outside your comfort zone can be highly motivating.
Embrace continuous learning: Actively seek out opportunities to develop new skills and expand your knowledge.
b. Cultivate a Positive Work Environment
Build strong relationships: Connect with your colleagues and create a supportive network. A sense of belonging can significantly boost motivation.
Recognize and celebrate achievements: Acknowledge your own accomplishments and those of your colleagues. Celebrating success fosters a positive and motivating atmosphere.
Promote open communication: Share your ideas and concerns with your manager and colleagues. Feeling heard and valued contributes to a sense of purpose.
c. Prioritize Well-being
Maintain work-life balance: Avoid burnout by setting boundaries and prioritizing your well-being.
Practice self-care: Engage in activities that bring you joy and help you recharge.
Bring your whole self to work: Don't be afraid to let your personality and passions shine through in your work.
d. Take Ownership and Initiative
Be proactive: Look for ways to improve processes and contribute beyond your assigned tasks.
Embrace autonomy: Take ownership of your work and be accountable for your results.
Seek feedback: Actively solicit feedback on your performance and look for ways to improve.
By focusing on these strategies, you can move "beyond targets" and cultivate a deeper sense of purpose and motivation in your work, leading to greater job satisfaction and overall fulfillment.
Make sure to check regular your interests and purpose in life to actively influence your current position or to seek for a new one in a more aligned environment to your own personality.
Comments