06th November 2020
Inspiring your people in a changing world – Creating moments of inspiration at work
To inspire means to “fill (someone) with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially to do something creative.”
But let’s kill one ‘inspire’ myth, first.
People cannot be inspired all of the time. Nor should they expect to. Work isn’t meant to be like Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory, filled with orange-skinned Oomph Loompas, rivers of chocolate and a free supply of Fizzy Lifting drinks.
Work is work.
To do ‘work’ is to be engaged in a physical or mental activity in order to achieve a result. Ultimately something financial. Not all work and not all results are or can be inspiring.
The better question is how do you create moments of inspiration at work? Pixie dust moments that light up any day!
1. Keep the dream in mind.
Whatever your vision, mission, goal, ambition or dream is – feed it.
Be constantly sharing stories of how people are making a real difference to your customers, your community, your planet – whoever or whatever you’re helping. When we share a story, our whole brain lights up and people feel personally connected to it, to you and to your dream.
2. Keep people involved.
Ever had the silent treatment? Or been invited to a party as an afterthought?
Being ignored is psychologically damaging. At work, we often fail to communicate or keep people in the loop through sheer busy-ness. So, take the time to include people in the latest news – it perks our spirits knowing someone cares about us.
3. Keep asking for ideas.
The IKEA effect is a cognitive bias in which we place a disproportionately high value on things we’ve helped to create.
It’s why ‘About Us’ sections on websites are the most read. People like to read about themselves or their BFFs. It is the same with ideas. Celebrate who had the idea and watch them glow with pride.
This blog is a part of the IW Official Guide: World Mental Health Day Supporting the workplace during the pandemic & beyond. Download the full guide here.