Page 10 - Perfect Phrases for Motivating and Rewarding

Introduction

otivation is the force that drives us all in every aspect of our
lives. Without motivation, we wouldn’t work, diet, exercise,
Mpursue hobbies, or even get out of bed in the morning.
In business, motivation is the seed at the center of every success. In
Thomas Edison’s enduring words, “Genius is one percent inspiration and
ninety-nine percent perspiration.” Without motivation, we would all be
reduced to that one percent mindset, daydreaming as we gaze through
a window, wondering why nothing interesting ever seems to happen.
Luckily, motivation is all around us, and most of us have natural
drives toward satisfaction and success. Unfortunately, demotivating
forces and demotivating people also surround us. Negativity is like a
contagious disease (and it is the cause of much dis-ease). The good
news is that a motivational mindset is also contagious, but spread-
ing it takes more than hanging “happy” posters. In order to become
a motivating force, you have to believe those inspiring slogans and
embrace a positively motivating attitude.
When we first told people we were writing a book on motiva-
tional phrases, the first suggestion we were given was, “How about
‘Your money or your life’?” We had to admit that’s a pretty motivating
phrase! Obviously, it was said as a joke, but threats seem to have a high
results ratio. Fear-based motivation of employees is easy. A manager
gives orders, maybe shouts them, then goes into an office and closes
the door. If you disturb the manager, you had better have a darn good
reason. If you mess up, you’re in big trouble, and everyone knows what
“big trouble” means. Negative motivation such as threats of being fired,
demoted, or otherwise losing opportunities or privileges may seem to
work, but any gains will be offset by employees feeling less dedicated

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