Optimise for Motivation
Keeping humans engaged and creative to sustain performance.
Motivation Optimization System
Core Metrics
1. Engagement Metrics
- eNPS trend
- Employee satisfaction surveys
- Participation in initiatives
- Voluntary contribution
2. Psychological Safety
- Team trust index
- Feedback frequency
- Error reporting rate
- Innovation attempts
3. Growth Indicators
- Skill development rate
- Internal mobility
- Mentorship participation
- Learning investment
Motivation Levers
1. Meaningful Mission
- Clear purpose alignment
- Impact visibility
- Customer connection
- Value demonstration
2. Autonomy with Guardrails
- Decision-making freedom
- Clear boundaries
- Resource access
- Accountability framework
3. Growth Environment
- Learning opportunities
- Career pathways
- Skill development
- Challenge balance
Implementation Guide
First 30 Days
- Assess current state
- Establish baseline metrics
- Identify quick wins
60-90 Days
- Implement core programs
- Train leaders
- Establish feedback loops
Beyond 90 Days
- Refine programs
- Scale successes
- Continuous improvement
Anti-patterns
1. Micromanagement
❌ Problem: Kills autonomy and creativity ✅ Solution: Clear boundaries and trust
2. Burnout Culture
❌ Problem: Short-term gains, long-term damage ✅ Solution: Sustainable pace and balance
3. Disconnected Purpose
❌ Problem: Work feels meaningless ✅ Solution: Clear mission and impact visibility
Integration Points
With Other Practices
- Supports Flow Optimization
- Enables Cost Efficiency
- Drives Mission Delivery
With Tools & Systems
- Engagement platforms
- Learning management systems
- Recognition programs
Related Topics
Pro Tip: Focus on creating an environment where people can do their best work, rather than trying to motivate them directly.
Further Reading
- “Drive” by Daniel Pink
- “The Culture Code” by Daniel Coyle
- “Radical Candor” by Kim Scott