By: Kriss Barlow, RN, MBA | kbarlow@barlowmccarthy.com
Just this week I had a field manager ask me about best practices to keep the team motivated and inspired in their daily work. While leaders can make an impact because some motivation is extrinsic, a whole lot of motivation is intrinsic and, boy, is it hard to turn the boat around when you are just not feeling it. For some it means searching for a new job and for others it can create naysaying and pot-stirring.
So, for those of you who may be in that boat, here are some ideas for you personally to keep focused and motivated:
Relish the wins. We always think of big stuff when we think of a win. And, yes, there is delight in a new referral. But there is more. Spend extra time considering good visits. Likewise, if there are successful inroads with service lines, with medical records or with a grumpy stakeholder, that’s an equally important moment to enjoy. Write down your wins, both big and little.
Break barriers into small steps. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with what’s not changing and sometimes it feels personal. Actually, sometimes the barriers grow in our own minds! Take a minute to write down the barrier and then detail the incremental steps that are necessary to get to the desired change.
Celebrate on occasion. Growing up with stoic Swedes we were very careful about our celebrations. Don’t be like that! Work is such a huge part of life, so it can’t be a chore. Some teams celebrate together, other field staff find personal ways to have fun. You decide. My part is to remind you that it is important part of self-motivation.
Personal dreams. There are work goals and personal goals – you need both. Your goals should move you toward a personal vision. We all know someone who decided to run a marathon or lose weight. Nothing could stop them – out running in the rain, drinking seltzer at happy hour, it’s impressive. Work goals may not be as transparent, but they are every bit as important. Where do you see yourself in your career in the next two years? Have you built out the steps and the roadmap? Great personal motivation comes from clear direction and, even with setbacks, the goal is clear. Assuming everything is right about the role but your motivation, it’s yours to own.
Sometimes we get caught and what we really need to do is just test an idea and either deem it a success or let it go. Perhaps today’s the day. Rather than waiting for someone or something to motivate you, take it on.