committed to, that a transformation occurs first in the individual and soon, followed by the team. A transformation or perhaps more accurately a manifestation that takes on a life of its’ own so that as any success occurs, it begins to feed the fire and serve as fuel for greater successes. This fuel super charges the employee’s environment and positively impacts the atmosphere. The challenge is to rally sufficient confidence, energy and fuel to achieve the initial success.

   Where do we start? Perhaps in recognizing that our teams (employees) are seeking the opportunity to succeed. In survey after survey that we have conducted with employee groups in the past decade, we continue to receive feedback that the most motivating reason(s) employees work in their current positions, is that they seek to feel productive, make a difference, and when they are productive and are making a difference, they want to be recognized.

   Are our employees here only for their paycheck? I doubt it. Several years ago I came across a Gallup survey that provided that the principle reasons why employees left their place of employment.

   1. Not being rewarded greater responsibility
   2. Prevented from making an impact on the organization and,
   Somewhere further down the list was the reason of low pay.

   The truth is, as leaders we failed these people.

   As leaders we must develop and communicate goals so inspiring they leave behind the domain of simple objectives and goals and begin developing causes. As team leaders we must effectively convey to our teams (employees) the importance of not leaving their enthusiasm in the parking lot and to impart to them that this thing they call "work", that consumes 40% (or more) or their lives, is currently their best opportunity to accomplish their dreams and aspirations.