It was a dark and dreary day. The snow was falling and the sun was nowhere to be seen. I spent a couple hours writing and completing a few tasks around my house while I waited for a delivery. The delivery window was between 8 a.m. and noon. You know, the type where you’re at the mercy of the delivery truck.
Done with work, I plopped myself down on the living room couch and decided I’d relax while I waited for that last hour to pass. Totally demotivated to do anything else but stay in and stay warm, I turned on a movie and started surfing on my phone.
That’s when I came across a blog sharing ways to motivate yourself to get off the couch. Just what I needed!
Communication is one way to motivate individuals to take action. In my case, get off the couch and go to the gym. I’d been thinking about it, but it was much easier to talk myself out of it than into it.
A personal contact, written text, a call from a friend, they all help to lift spirits and inspire others to take action. Communication also helps you feel connected and engaged. Think about how you feel when you hear from a friend or a family member. It can give you that little burst of energy you need to get on with your day.
Communication in the workplace
With working from home a common occurrence, communication is key. A lack of connection can feel demotivating and leave an employee feeling alone. Here are a few ways leaders can help employees or colleagues feel connected and motivated.
Meet regularly
A regular meeting where individuals can connect either in person or over a video call is always a good idea. This provides team members an opportunity to ask questions and to share experiences.
Check in
Spend a little time checking in on individuals. That little bit of contact can go a long way to making someone feel appreciated. They may also have their own concerns and questions which may not be suited for a group discussion.
Drop a note
Leaving a little note of appreciation can go a long way to put a smile on someone’s face.
Celebrate!
Look for those opportunities when you can recognize someone’s success, celebrate a special occasion or get together just because.
Share ideas
For me, today’s motivation was to get off the couch. Reading a blog detailing ways to find motivation was a good reminder of goals I had set for myself. Needless to say, I got off the couch and headed to the gym. I was glad I did.
Motivation is the driving force behind why someone does something. Think of the times when you’ve been motivated to move. What did it take to get you moving?
Writing for you. 