As a manager, have you ever tried incentivizing underperforming employees or increasing oversight and control, only to find that nothing seems to improve? The reason for this could be that you are operating under the assumption that work is solely a contractual obligation and that employees are primarily self-interested, motivated only by personal gain. Unfortunately, this approach can become a self-fulfilling prophecy, where employees only do the bare minimum required to earn a reward or meet a standard.

However, there is another way to inspire and motivate your team: by rallying them around a higher purpose. By creating a meaningful and aspirational mission that explains how employees are making a difference and contributing to a larger cause, you can instill a sense of purpose and meaning in their work. When employees feel that their work is meaningful and contributes to something greater than themselves, they are more likely to be energized and committed to their jobs.

This approach is not just about motivation, either. Employees who are working towards a higher purpose are also more likely to take risks, experiment with new ideas, and make valuable contributions that can drive performance and innovation within your organization. In essence, a higher purpose can unlock the full potential of your workforce.

So, if you’re looking to improve employee engagement and performance, consider shifting your focus from incentivizing and controlling to inspiring and rallying around a higher purpose. By doing so, you may find that your team becomes more committed, innovative, and successful than ever before.