How do you stay motivated in these crazy times?

Motivation comes partially from the external, such as through the work you do, but also in part from within yourself. If, as an employer, you want to promote the latter, you can start from the 'ABCs of intrinsic motivation' that we have discussed before with psychologist Matthijs Steeneveld: 

• Autonomy: Give employees the space and responsibility to choose their own path
• Involvement: Facilitate a good atmosphere and positive relationships, where employees have a space to share their stories.
• Competence: Challenge employees and provide adequate support.
  
  The above may seem like a big step for organisations, however it's important to realise that when employees are allowed to do work in their own way, they often do their work with more flexibility and enthusiasm and better results.

Quick wins

The above solution is one for the longer term, yet as an employer you can also do things now to increase motivation. Perhaps your employees can already take steps within the company through training. But even if they cannot grow immediately, it is useful to see which employees have not yet mastered certain skills or would like to improve them. That way, you have staff who are flexibly employable and have more knowledge to do the job well. 

According to Steeneveld, it is important to look for a situation that works well for both the staff and the company. That way, employees have more autonomy and meaningful work, while the company has employees who are driven and feel responsible. In the end, everyone, from employee to manager, wants to do their best work.

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