Insights 11: Give to get!

Thoughtful quotations:

“You get the best out of others, when you give the best of yourself” Harry Firestone

“The sight of an achievement is the greatest gift you could offer others” Ayn Rand

Context for reflection:

As Maslow’s hierarchy of needs teaches us people generally aspire to serve 5 fundamental needs, Physiological Safety and security, Love and belonging, Self-esteem and Self-actualisation. To motivate and give of our best leaders need to hear the needs that are most important to their people.

At this time of turmoil in our world, to be in tune at the level of individual needs and fears, without assuming what will help is critical. The emotional impact of the pandemic and its fallout has touched the most basic needs for many safety, security and physiological needs have been seriously challenged.  These are the “intrinsic needs” that can be missed, as people often express the need to be satisfied by the “extrinsic needs” of money and rewards (it’s an easier discussion). Whilst extrinsic needs are not denied, they only motivate in the short-term.

By digging deep to understand each team member’s individual needs (fears), contribution and desire, will enable you to find the way to give the best of yourself. This will be the greatest gift you can give to another person.

A question for you:

• What are the hopes and fears of individuals on your team?

• How could you help reframe these into a more positive aspiration with each person?

• How can you give the best in energy toward guiding individuals to their future?

Drafted in all humility as I continue my journey of discovery. It is indeed challenging, with so much to remember and learn.

Andrew Pons

References:

Sharma, R. The Leader who had no title, First Edition, Simon & Shuster, UK, 2010

Urban, H, Life’s Greatest Lessons, First Edition, Fireside, 2003

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