“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” – Robert Collier.
Motivation isn’t just about big achievements; it’s about the small, consistent steps that lead to progress. This is the essence of the Progress Principle, which shows that making regular progress, no matter how minor, can significantly boost your motivation and drive.
Many managers focus solely on major milestones and overlook the importance of daily progress. They might celebrate only the big wins, leaving their team feeling underappreciated for the daily efforts that lead to these successes. This can cause a dip in motivation and a sense of disconnection from the larger goals.
What Managers Often Do:
- Celebrate only major milestones, ignoring small daily achievements.
- Set long-term goals without breaking them down into manageable tasks.
- Provide feedback only during formal reviews, missing out on daily encouragement.
These practices can make team members feel their everyday efforts are unnoticed. So, how can you harness the power of the Progress Principle to boost motivation?
A Better Way:
- Acknowledge Daily Wins: Take time to recognize and celebrate small victories. A simple acknowledgment can go a long way in boosting morale.
- Break Down Goals: Divide larger goals into smaller, achievable tasks. This makes progress visible and keeps the team motivated as they tick off each task.
- Provide Regular Feedback: Offer consistent, constructive feedback. Let your team know how their daily efforts contribute to the bigger picture.
- Create a Progress Journal: Encourage team members to keep a journal of their daily achievements. This helps them see their growth and stay motivated.
- Foster a Supportive Environment: Create a culture where team members support each other’s progress. Celebrating each other’s achievements builds a strong, motivated team.
Today, take a moment to recognize a small but significant achievement by a team member. Share your appreciation and highlight how this contributes to your team’s overall goals. Encourage your team to focus on daily progress and remind them that every small step counts.
Remember, progress is the best motivator. By focusing on and celebrating the small steps, you can keep your team motivated and driven towards their goals.
Best,
Jef Menguin
