This week we learn about top performers, goal gradients, and great strategy. As well as books and death.
Let's get going!
3 Droplets of Leadership
How to Motivate a Top Performer — When You Can’t Promote Them
Promotions often indicate career success and advancement in many workplaces. However, only some people can get promoted. Talented employees may feel disheartened if they move up slowly. So, managers should create short-term plans to meet these employees' essential needs.
This piece is all about finding alternative rewards when a promotion is not a viable option.
On the same topic:
Using the Goal Gradient Hypothesis to Help People Cross the Finish Line
We work harder when we're near our goals. This idea is known as the goal gradient hypothesis. It means that we feel motivated to finish the task when we can see the reward. People who design things or make decisions can use this idea to motivate others. They can break big tasks into smaller ones, making the goal seem closer. This can make people work harder.
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What Makes a Strategy Great
Avoid using so-called "strategies" that are unclear and merely wishful thinking. Often, they are written once and forgotten. There is a better way to go. Instead, could you focus on the traits of an excellent strategy?
The strategy needs to understand and convey our plan to win. It must deal with the complexity of systems. It should avoid mistakes and use human nature's strengths. It must also explain the choices leading to the desired result.
Check out this article on great strategy.
2 Grains of Technology
The 2023 summer reading guide by McKinsey
The annual book list from McKinsey's leaders and editors has returned. As always, it provides intriguing choices that mirror current events. These books have insights for anyone seeking to understand our rapidly changing world. Don't miss it!
How Doctors Die
Doctors, like everyone else, want to live, not die. However, their knowledge of modern medicine makes them aware of its limitations. They also understand death well. They know people's two biggest fears: experiencing pain during death and dying in solitude.
Check out this excellent essay.
1 Atom of Reflection
It's never about time. It's always about priorities.