Page 183 - How to Create a Winning Organization

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THE CARROT IS MIGHTIER

THAN A STICK

“Punishment invokes fear. I wanted a team whose
members were filled with pride, not fear.”

r. Earl Warriner, principal of my grade school in Center-
Mton, Indiana, had an old-fashioned motivational tool: the
switch. Cut from the hedge running alongside the schoolhouse and
trimmed of thorns, it was a strong motivator for young pupils who
got out of line.
One morning before our daily song, four of my classmates and
I decided we’d play a practical joke on Mr. Warriner by pretending
to sing—moving our lips but remaining silent. Of course, once the
singing—or lack of it—began, he caught the prank and spotted the
mischief makers. Our giggling gave us away.
The singers were asked to stop while Mr. Warrriner slowly
walked over to his desk and got out his switch. He then lined us in
a row and quietly asked one by one, “Will you sing?” I was fourth
in line.
The first boy lost his nerve immediately, almost before Mr. War-
riner had finished asking the question. “I’ll sing, Mr. Warriner,” he
blurted.
The second boy held out until he was told to turn around and
bend over. That was all it took.

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