Headed for a bio break? Grab that dry erase marker and your favorite quote. Write the quote or message of encouragement on the restroom mirror to inspire your team in an unexpected way. They’ll appreciate the dose of inspiration while washing their hands and wondering who the mystery motivator is.
Did you know that according to professor and author Ward Farnsworth, words hold inherent power and people have an appetite for well-expressed wisdom, motivational or otherwise?
We all have a tough time at work every once in a while. Perhaps it’s just an “off” day. Or maybe it’s the stress of not having enough hours in the day to get everything done or the pressure of a huge project due date looming ever closer. Regardless, there are days where we just aren’t operating at our full potential. This can have obvious impacts on productivity, engagement, and morale. And not just for that one specific employee, it can spread throughout your team, as well.
What can you do to help your employees when you notice they are having a having a rough time? Easy - share are some inspiration! According to media psychology expert and communications consultant Scott Sobel, “Humans are aspirational. We want to look up to role models and leaders and follow what they ask. Leaders and their words–inspirational quotes–affect us on a primal level.” In other words, messages from leaders are powerful motivators, so be the leader that guides your team through a tough day, week, or month by sharing inspirational words to re-energize and invigorate them!
This week, I challenge you to check out www.janspence.com/book-resources for places to find motivational and inspirational quotes. You can also do a quick Google search. Pick a few phrases that really resonate with you and save them somewhere so you can easily refer to them when you need to. Ask your team what their favorite quotes are or what they turn to when they need some inspiration and motivation.
FUN FACT - The great Chinese teacher and philosopher, Confucius, who lived from 551-479 BC, famously said, “Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising every time we fail.”