10. M=V/E

Colleagues,

MVP: M=V/E
​
Motivation equals value divided by effort. 
 
If people don’t seem motivated enough then one of two things is wrong. Either they don’t see the full value, or the endeavor requires too much effort. 
 
This isn’t about being resistant, or lazy, or anything else negative.
 
 It is just economics. 
 
I may drive nine hours to visit my family, but I won’t travel that distance to visit someone I met at a concert last week. The value is not worth the effort. Note also, that what some people may value highly, others may not. In addition, the same task may require different levels of effort by different people. 
 
A motivation problem is simply a misalignment between what we are asking people to do and the value they see in doing it.
 
Intention: Reflect on someone who resisted a change you were asking for and try to understand the V/E equation from their perspective.

Our annual summer tradition is to share the most important things I’ve learned from other people throughout the month of July. This summer we have 20 lessons. You will receive one a day until we are done. If you feel particularly moved and want to share a reaction, please ​reply​!

Cheers!

Frederick