M=V/E

Colleagues,
 
Today we continue the series on the fifteen most important things I have learned from others.

Motivation equals value divided by effort. So, quite simply, 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 party 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.

Do good and be well, 

Frederick