Hi Jean,
I refocus my efforts with a "to do" lists.
A "to do" list I look at my mission statement and develop my task list. I am a combat veteran so there is not too much in the civilian world that can affect my motivation. I am here for the students. Nationally only 14% of all Hispanic graduate with a four year college degree. At present I am able to retain and graduate 80% of my Hispanic students. A long term goal is necessary to stay on track. I hope to be able to eliminate the Hispanic Education gap in Broward County in the future.
That's great Agustin. Are there times when your work environment impacts your motivation? If so, how do you refocus your energy?
Dr. Jean Norris
No. I am driven from the inside.
I create my new environment.
A leader must be self motivated.
Yes, there is definitely a feedback loop involving management style and performers with motivation to manage and lead.
I can't think of a specific analogy but this is where the balance between management and leadership comes to play because to stay motivated to lead we need to keep in mind the management style that will work best with a team. Thank you for the additional thought you put into this forum.
For now, I would say a leader would know what type of leadership to implement, for example coercive vs democratic. However, I wasn't trying to go in that direction.
Is there a leadership analogy that matches the quote, "The media is the message."?
Still thinking.
So if I understand your comment, the environment doesn't necessarily influence your motivation to lead but the environment could impact how you respond? Do you have an example of this?
Dr. Jean Norris
Right now, I think motivation to lead is separate from the environment. A leader's skills are always on, so that must mean motivation is on.
The work environment prompts the type of leadership response.
My environment can affect my motivation to lead in some instances. If I am working on a project that really inspires me it is less likely to happen, but if I am working on something that isn't something I'm really interested it can be hard to find motivation. If I am bring into fruition my own idea, I can usually overcome any obstacles like disorganization, low morale or a lack of participation; if it is a project that I can't get behind or disagree with, I tend to use those things as excuses or reasons not to work as hard.
This is something I would like to learn how to improve during this course for sure.
Thank you for your comments Frank. I'm curious, what can we do as individuals to create an environment that motivates people to lead?
I believe your environment plays a great role in allowing the motivation to lead. If you are somewhere where your ideas and thoughts are always downplayed or looked over chances are you will not excel to become a leader, but if you are allowed to utilze your experinces, thoughts, and ideas in a way to allow positve change then the chance for you to blossom into a leadership role is more able to transpire.
vicki,
Yes, the leaders are the big picture thinkers in many cases.
Dr. Jean Norris
Leaders see beyond current circumstances and sell their vision despite environmental challenges.
Work environment only play a small role in motivation to lead, in my opinion. The number one characteristic is your individual desire to lead. Without the desire, the work environment is just another place to spend time with co-workers and fit in. I must admit, the work environment can make it more difficult to lead, depending on the established culture and possibly the practices of any former leaders.
I am one who is motivated by internal. I do not do what I do for the money. I enjoy knowing that I am a part of a team and knowing that my work is beneficial to a larger picture.
Richard, I love this. Thanks for sharing it. These will certainly create a positive and open work environment which in turn leads to happy employees, which ultimately leads to happy students.
Dr. Jean Norris
Treat ALL employees with respect. Open communication at all times. And allow enough latitude for growth and creativity.
Richard, sure. That's a great point. I wonder, what can you do to ensure you have a good working environment?
Dr. Jean Norris
Of course! A good environment motivates me more than a poor working environment
Dan,interesting point. It sounds like you believe that internal motivation should be higher than external or environment motivation. Your examples provide that proof. Thanks for sharing it.
Dr. Jean Norris
