motivation.

“You can’t push a rope.” – T Alan Goldsborough

I have a working German Shepherd named Nala. She will do anything for a ball.

It took me a while to figure it out. I bought toys for her I wanted to play with. I bought special treats others said she’d like. Turns out she doesn’t like them as much as I do—or they said she would.

When the ball comes out, she’s 100% attentive, focused, full drive. She will work herself to exhaustion if I’m not careful leading her.

I think people can be similar.

Many times we motivate others with what motivates us—when it doesn’t motivate them. We get compliance, half-hearted effort, and short-term buy-in. How much energy have you wasted?

It feels more push than pull.

Think back though your leadership experience. What happens when you stop pushing? Does your team accelerate or stall?

Maybe you’ve felt that moment you’ve had to pull back on the reigns rather than press down on the accelerator. These are beautiful moments.

Learn what motivates your team.

Don’t waste time pushing a rope.

In your business, non-profit, or church:

What truly motivates your team?

Are you pushing or pulling your team?