Are you tired of leading or being part of lackluster teams that seem to just go through the motions? Do you wonder what sets truly exceptional teams apart from the rest?
It all boils down to a powerful force within: intrinsic motivation.
Intrinsically motivated teams are the ones that not only meet their goals but also surpass them with unwavering enthusiasm.
Think about legendary sports teams like the Chicago Bulls during the Michael Jordan era or innovative tech companies like Apple.
These teams didn’t just rely on external rewards; they were driven by an inner passion for excellence.
In this post, we’ll unravel the secrets to creating intrinsically motivated teams that not only thrive but also redefine success.
What is intrinsic motivation
Intrinsic motivation is the internal desire or innate drive that compels individuals to engage in an activity, not for external rewards or recognition, but for the sheer joy, fulfillment, or satisfaction it brings.
It’s that inner flame that pushes you to tackle challenges, learn new skills, and strive for excellence simply because you love what you’re doing.
Imagine a writer who can’t resist the urge to craft stories because they find immense pleasure in the act of writing itself.
That’s intrinsic motivation in action
How is intrinsic motivation different from extrinsic motivation
But what sets intrinsic motivation apart from its counterpart, extrinsic motivation?
Extrinsic motivation, on the other hand, is driven by external factors like rewards, praise, or the fear of punishment.
It’s when individuals or teams perform tasks primarily to earn a paycheck, gain recognition, or avoid negative consequences.
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For instance, an employee who works solely to receive a year-end bonus is primarily extrinsically motivated. They will only perform as long as they are receiving the external reward.
Why intrinsic motivation matters more
As a team leader, you must realize that rewards, promotions, and paychecks are only going to take you so far in your pursuit of team performance and motivation.
The inner fire, the passion for what we do for its own sake, matters more than we often realize.
Let’s delve into the reasons why intrinsic motivation matters so significantly and why it should be prioritized.
1. Sustained Effort and Resilience
Intrinsic motivation is like an everlasting wellspring of energy.
When individuals are intrinsically motivated, they’re willing to put in sustained effort and overcome obstacles.
Why?
Because they genuinely enjoy what they’re doing.
Whether it’s a challenging project, a personal goal, or a hobby, intrinsic motivation keeps them going, even when the going gets tough.
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Consider a dedicated artist who spends hours perfecting their craft, not because they seek external validation, but because they find immense joy in the creative process.
Such team members are more likely to weather setbacks and persist through adversity, ultimately achieving higher levels of mastery and success.
2. Enhanced Creativity and Innovation
Woman painting on canvas. Source: pexels.com
Intrinsic motivation is a breeding ground for creativity and innovation.
When people are driven by their passion and genuine interest in a subject, they tend to explore, experiment, and push boundaries. They aren’t confined by the limitations of external constraints or expectations. This fosters a culture of original thinking and groundbreaking ideas.
Take, for instance, companies like Google.
Google nurtures a culture of self-reflection to assess their performance in innovation and creativity. Annually, they conduct Googlegeist surveys that gauge employees’ sentiments about innovation, evaluating factors like resource availability, team dynamics, and skills and mindsets. By analyzing the findings, Google actively takes steps to enhance the aspects that receive the lowest scores, fostering an environment that continually promotes innovation and creativity.
3. Greater Satisfaction and Well-Being
Happiness and well-being are closely tied to intrinsic motivation.
Engaging in activities that align with our personal interests and values brings a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction that goes beyond external achievements. This intrinsic satisfaction contributes to overall well-being and a higher quality of life.
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Research in positive psychology has consistently shown that individuals who pursue activities driven by intrinsic motivation report higher levels of happiness, lower stress levels, and improved mental health.
When you’re doing what you love simply because you love it, the positive impact on your well-being is undeniable.
4. Long-Term Commitment and Mastery
Intrinsic motivation fosters a long-term commitment to personal growth and mastery.
When individuals are intrinsically motivated, they’re more likely to invest time and effort in developing their skills and expertise continually. This dedication results in higher levels of competence and proficiency over time.
Think about musicians who practice their instruments for hours each day because they genuinely enjoy playing. Over the years, this dedication leads to mastery and the ability to create beautiful music effortlessly.
The same principle applies to teams, whether it’s sports, or professional skills.
5. Self-Determination and Autonomy
Intrinsic motivation allows individuals to feel a sense of control over their actions and choices. They’re not driven by external pressures or obligations, which lets them align their actions with their values and interests.
This autonomy empowers individuals to make choices that lead to greater personal fulfillment and growth.
It’s the driving force behind individuals who pursue their passions to create unique businesses and individuals who embark on journeys of self-discovery and personal development.
How to create intrinsically motivated teams
Happy team celebrating success
Creating intrinsically motivated teams is a valuable goal for any organization, as such teams tend to be more engaged, innovative, and productive.
Also read: 7 Secrets of High Performing Teams: How Teamwork Makes The Dream Work
Here are some key steps to foster intrinsic motivation within your team:
- Hiring for Motivation: It starts with the recruitment process. Look for individuals who not only have the required skills but also share a genuine passion for the team’s mission and objectives. For instance, according to Google’s innovation guide, they only hires people who are naturally curious.
- Clear and Meaningful Goals: Set clear and inspiring team goals that resonate with each team member. When people understand the purpose and impact of their work, they are more likely to find the drive in pursuing those goals.
- Positive Team Culture: Cultivate a positive team culture that encourages open communication, trust, and collaboration. When team members feel valued and supported, they are more likely to be inspired to contribute to the team’s success.
- Autonomy and Empowerment: Provide team members with autonomy to make decisions and take ownership of their work. Individuals who have a say in how they approach their tasks feel a sense of control and internal motivation.
- Skill Development: Encourage continuous learning and skill development within the team. Offer opportunities for team members to expand their knowledge and expertise, which can lead to increased enthusiasm as they see their skills grow.
- Recognition and Feedback: Recognize and appreciate the efforts and achievements of team members. Acknowledging their contributions reinforces their sense of purpose and pushes them intrinsically.
- Measure Progress: Use key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the team’s progress toward its goals. Regularly sharing these metrics with the team can provide a sense of achievement and encourage them to excel further.
- Adapt and Evolve: Continuously assess and adjust your approach. Different team members may have varying sources of intrinsic motivation, so staying flexible and adapting your strategies as needed is essential.
By implementing these strategies, you can create an environment where intrinsic motivation thrives, leading to a more engaged and high-performing team.
Remember that intrinsic motivation is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and it may require ongoing effort and attention to maintain, but the benefits it brings to your team and organization are well worth it.