I just returned from a half a day workshop with new leaders in the health care industry. It was a session filled with excitement. And it was so insightful, not only for them, but also for me.

The focus of the workshop was on motivating teams and on creating a culture of accountability and responsibility.

I want to write some words on the motivational aspect. Rather quickly I realised that it was unclear what the organisation stood for. Sure, there was a clear goal and it was clear how to reach it – but the more emotional aspect, the purpose, or the actual problem that the organisation solves, was a bit fuzzy.

So I decided to ask the members to explore their own motivation for being part of this group, in fact for being in the leadership team. What made them proud? What joy did they find in their association with this group? This exploration was eye-opening. It wasn’t just about goals; it was about belonging, about being part of something bigger.

This missing piece, though we did not complete it in half a day, was the crucial element that needed work. As the participants realised, including the purpose in aspects of their communication and work in general, helps motivate and inspire other members. Because everyone understands what they stand for.

It will also help them create a sense of community, to grow as a team, or as a tribe.

It reminded me of a lesson from Seth Godin: “People like us do things like this.” A lesson I learned in one of his marketing courses, but it resonates just as strongly in the context of leadership.

I offer more than only 1:1 coaching, in fact I thrive supporting teams just as much. And every time I learn something new, and that makes it worth so much.

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