Did you know that maintaining motivation at work can significantly impact your productivity and overall job satisfaction?
According to a study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, employees who stay motivated are more likely to achieve their goals and perform better.
You have probably noticed two types of employees. Group one consists of employees who set goals and exceed themselves almost all year round and group two who do the bare minimum and get by even though they want to do more.
If you fall into the latter group, try not to feel overwhelmed because it is natural for all of us to fall into this category at some point or the other.
The reason some of us quit our goals or don’t set them while others successfully reach theirs is the difference in the amount of motivation that drives us.
The fact is that feeling motivated is tougher than people make it seem, especially when a goal is unclear, undecided or unrealistic.
Even at this point in time, you might find yourself feeling less motivated about a project, cribbing about the kind of work that you once enjoyed doing, feel drained by the end of the day and mostly consider your workspace to be the biggest stressor in your life.
In this article, we’ll explore 10 practical ways to stay motivated at work, even during challenging times.
10 Amazing Tips to Stay Motivated at Work:
Before we get to the practical strategies, ask yourself what your goal is and why this goal. How is this goal going to contribute to your career?
Why is achieving this goal important for you?
Once you have answered these questions and set a foundation for your goal, you can then refer to the points below in order to sustain your motivation until you achieve the goal.
Plan and identify your goal:
Only when you have planned your goal, will you be able to think it through and differentiate between your goal and what others expect of you.
Define your short-term and long-term objectives. Setting clear goals gives you a sense of purpose and direction, making it easier to stay motivated.
For example, if your goal is to finish a project three days before the deadline, be clear about why you want to finish it in advance, be specific about how you want to approach the project.
Try to include the qualitative (how you would feel during and after achieving the goal) and quantitative (measurables like time required, energy to be invested, etc) aspects of the goal.
Connecting your tasks to the bigger picture gives your work meaning. Understand how your efforts contribute to the success of your team or organization.
When you see the impact you make, you’re more likely to stay motivated and engaged.
The prospect of tackling a large project can be overwhelming. Break down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.
Completing these mini-goals provides a sense of achievement along the way, keeping your motivation high.
Create a Positive Workspace:
Your work environment greatly influences your motivation. Personalize your workspace with items that inspire you, whether it’s a motivational quote, a plant, or artwork. A clean and organized workspace can improve your focus and boost your overall mood.
Building positive relationships with your coworkers can boost your motivation. Collaborating and sharing experiences with others creates a supportive network. During tough times, your colleagues can offer encouragement and a fresh perspective.
When your physical and mental space is disorganized, it becomes impossible to concentrate and get things done. Procrastination at the workplace becomes a common concern at this point.
If you find yourself drifting away from the goal, pause and think about what your priorities at the workplace are.
Once you know your priorities it will be easier to ignore or get rid of the distractions.
Reward yourself:
Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small. Recognizing your progress boosts your self-confidence and reminds you of your capabilities.
These rewards don’t have to be expensive or big, they just have to create a positive feeling for you. This positivity fuels your motivation to continue striving for excellence.
So, rewards could be spending the weekend doing nothing or by doing something pleasurable.
Research on habits suggest that goals can direct habits by motivating repeated behaviour. Therefore, use your goal to help you engage in habits on a day to day basis.
For example, setting reminders to review your work daily or weekly so that your ultimate contribution to a project at the end of the month will be without flaws or mistakes.
If you review your work consistently, it will become a habit for you to act on.
Practice Self-Care:
Taking care of your physical and mental well-being is crucial for maintaining motivation. Prioritize sleep, exercise, and a balanced diet.
When you feel your best, you’re better equipped to face challenges with a positive attitude.
Take Breaks Regularly:
Working without breaks can lead to burnout and decreased motivation. Schedule short breaks throughout the day to recharge.
Stepping away from your tasks refreshes your mind, helping you return with renewed focus and energy.
Stay present and fully engaged in your tasks by practicing mindfulness. Minimize distractions and focus on the task at hand.
Mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help you maintain your concentration and motivation.
Conclusion:
In the fast-paced world of work, staying motivated is a key factor in achieving success and personal satisfaction. By implementing these 10 easy tips, you can effectively combat demotivation and maintain a high level of productivity, even on the most challenging days. Remember, your commitment to staying motivated not only benefits your career but also contributes to a more fulfilling work experience overall.
In a paper presented at the Annual Conference of the American Psychological Association, Paul Hettich said that 50-80% of new college graduates leave their first job within three years because of poor career planning and problems inherent in the college-to-work transition.
Living and working away from home can take some time to get used to. Anticipating changes, difficulties and challenges can minimize its impact. Adjusting is the key. Below you will find different stages in which adjustment comes about.
The “Honeymoon” Stage
The first few weeks in your own new place and the new city will be very exciting.
Communication is a fundamental aspect of human interaction. It allows us to express our thoughts, feelings and needs to others. Understanding different communication styles is essential for effective and meaningful connections with others. In this article, we will specifically talk about assertive communication style.
There are various communication styles that individuals may adopt. These styles can be categorized into passive, aggressive, passive-aggressive, and assertive communication. Each style has its own unique characteristics and impacts the dynamics of interpersonal relationships.
Passive communication is characterized by a lack of self-expression and an avoidance of conflict. Individuals who communicate passively often struggle to assert their needs and desires, leading to feelings of frustration and resentment. On the other hand, aggressive communication is marked by a disregard for the feelings and opinions of others. Aggressive communicators tend to dominate conversations and impose their views on others, creating a hostile environment.
Passive-aggressive communication combines elements of both passive and aggressive styles. Individuals who communicate in this way may appear cooperative on the surface, but express their true feelings indirectly through sarcasm, backhanded compliments, or subtle sabotage. Lastly, assertive communication is the healthiest and most effective style. It involves expressing oneself in a direct and respectful manner, while also considering the feelings and needs of others.
What is assertive communication?
Assertive communication is a style of expressing oneself honestly, directly, and respectfully. It involves clearly stating one’s thoughts, feelings, and needs, while also considering the rights and feelings of others. Unlike passive or aggressive communication, assertive communication aims to find a balance between self-expression and empathy for others.
The key difference between assertive communication and other styles lies in its approach to conflict resolution. While passive communication avoids conflict and aggressive communication escalates it, assertive communication seeks to address conflicts in a healthy and constructive manner. This style encourages open dialogue, active listening, and compromise.
For example, imagine a situation where a group of friends is planning a weekend getaway. A passive communicator may silently agree to a destination they dislike, feeling unable to voice their opinion. An aggressive communicator, on the other hand, might insist on their preferred destination without considering others’ preferences. In contrast, an assertive communicator would express their preferences while also listening to and respecting the desires of others. They would engage in a discussion to find a compromise that satisfies everyone.
The importance of assertive communication
Assertive communication is crucial for maintaining healthy relationships and fostering mutual understanding. It allows individuals to express their thoughts and feelings honestly, while also respecting the rights and boundaries of others. By using assertive communication, people can effectively communicate their needs, assert their boundaries, and resolve conflicts in a constructive manner.
When individuals communicate assertively, they are more likely to be heard and understood. This promotes open dialogue and encourages others to reciprocate with their own assertive communication. Assertiveness also helps build trust and respect, as it demonstrates a willingness to listen and consider different perspectives.
Moreover, assertive communication contributes to personal empowerment. It allows individuals to advocate for themselves and their interests, leading to increased self-confidence and self-esteem. By embracing assertive communication, individuals can take control of their lives and assert their voice in a world that often pressures them to conform.
Benefits of assertive communication
Practising assertive communication offers a multitude of benefits that positively impact both individuals and their relationships. Firstly, assertive communication fosters effective and clear expression of thoughts and feelings. By clearly stating one’s needs and desires, individuals are more likely to have their voices heard and respected by others.
Additionally, assertive communication promotes healthy boundaries and self-respect. When individuals assertively express their limits and boundaries, they establish a sense of self-worth and self-care. This helps prevent others from taking advantage of them and leads to healthier, more balanced relationships.
Furthermore, assertive communication reduces misunderstandings and conflicts. By expressing oneself clearly and respectfully, individuals minimize the chances of miscommunication and the resulting frustration or resentment. Assertive communicators actively listen to others and seek to understand their perspectives, leading to more harmonious interactions.
Overall, assertive communication empowers individuals to take charge of their lives, express themselves authentically, and build stronger, more fulfilling relationships.
How to be assertive while communicating
Assertive communication is a skill that can be developed and practised over time. Here are some strategies to help individuals become more assertive in their communication:
Self-awareness: Start by understanding your own thoughts, feelings, and needs. Reflect on what you want to communicate and why it is important to you. This self-awareness will provide a solid foundation for assertive expression.
Active listening: Pay attention to the perspectives and needs of others. Actively listen and seek to understand their point of view. This demonstrates respect and empathy, which are essential components of assertive communication.
Use “I” statements: When expressing your thoughts and feelings, use “I” statements to take ownership of your emotions and experiences. For example, instead of saying, “You always make me feel ignored,” say, “I feel ignored when…”
Practice assertive body language: Maintain eye contact, stand or sit upright, and use a calm and confident tone of voice. Non-verbal cues play a significant role in assertive communication, conveying self-assurance and respect.
Set reasonable boundaries: Clearly define your personal boundaries and communicate them assertively. Let others know what is acceptable and unacceptable to you. Be firm yet respectful in asserting your limits.
Practice assertive phrases: Use assertive phrases to express your thoughts, needs, and boundaries. For example, say “I would prefer…” instead of “I guess I could…”. Practice these phrases in various situations to build your assertiveness skills.
By incorporating these strategies into daily interactions, individuals can gradually develop assertive communication skills and confidently express themselves while maintaining respect for others.
Real-life examples of situations and people who exhibit assertive communication
Assertive communication is visible in various aspects of life, from personal relationships to professional settings. Let’s explore some real-life situations and people who exhibit assertive communication:
Shashi, the team leader: Shashi effectively leads her team by clearly communicating expectations, providing constructive feedback, and addressing conflicts in a respectful manner. She encourages open dialogue and ensures that everyone’s opinions are heard and considered.
Jatin, the romantic partner: Jatin openly communicates his needs and desires to his partner, while also actively listening to their perspective. He expresses his feelings honestly and respectfully, fostering a healthy and balanced relationship.
Latika, the customer service representative: Latika handles customer complaints assertively by actively listening to their concerns, empathizing with their frustrations, and finding solutions that satisfy both parties. She remains calm and professional, even in challenging situations.
Sameer, the parent: Sameer uses assertive communication when setting boundaries and disciplining their children. They clearly express expectations and consequences, while also nurturing open communication and understanding within the family.
These examples highlight how assertive communication can positively impact various aspects of life, leading to healthier relationships, effective leadership, and successful conflict resolution.
How to handle a situation when one might come across an assertive person
Encountering an assertive person can sometimes be intimidating, especially if one is not accustomed to assertive communication. However, there are strategies to handle such situations and engage in productive dialogue:
Remain calm and composed: Take a deep breath and focus on maintaining your own composure. Remember that the assertive person is expressing themselves, not attacking you personally.
Listen actively: Pay close attention to what the assertive person is saying. Listen with an open mind and try to understand their perspective. This demonstrates respect and allows for a more constructive conversation.
Avoid becoming defensive: It is natural to feel defensive when faced with assertive communication, particularly if it challenges your own beliefs or actions. However, try to remain open to feedback and avoid becoming defensive. Remember that assertive communication aims to find a solution, not assign blame.
Ask questions: Seek clarification by asking questions that help you better understand the assertive person’s concerns or needs. This shows that you are genuinely interested in resolving the issue and finding common ground.
Express your own thoughts and feelings: Once the assertive person has expressed their perspective, assertively communicate your own thoughts and feelings. Use “I” statements to clearly express your position while also acknowledging the other person’s viewpoint.
Find common ground: Look for areas of agreement or compromise. Assertive communication is about finding solutions that benefit both parties. By focusing on shared goals or interests, you can work towards a mutually satisfactory resolution.
Remember, engaging with assertive individuals can lead to productive conversations and improved understanding. By approaching these situations with an open mind and a willingness to find common ground, you can foster positive communication and build stronger relationships.
Tips for embracing different communication styles
Embracing different communication styles is essential for creating inclusive and harmonious relationships. Here are some tips to help individuals embrace and adapt to different communication styles:
Practice active listening: Actively listen to others without interrupting or judging. Pay attention to both verbal and non-verbal cues, and show genuine interest in understanding the other person’s perspective.
Cultivate empathy: Put yourself in the other person’s shoes and try to understand their thoughts, feelings, and needs. Empathy allows for greater understanding and appreciation of diverse communication styles.
Respect individual differences: Recognize that everyone has their own unique communication style shaped by their experiences, culture, and personality. Respect these differences and avoid making assumptions or judgments.
Seek feedback: Ask for feedback from trusted individuals about your own communication style. This feedback can help you identify areas for improvement and adapt your style to better connect with others.
Educate yourself: Learn about various communication styles and their characteristics. Understanding the different styles will enable you to navigate interactions more effectively and respond appropriately to different communication preferences.
Practice flexibility: Be willing to adapt your communication style to meet the needs of others. Flexibility allows for better collaboration, understanding, and connection with individuals who communicate differently than you.
By embracing and adapting to different communication styles, individuals can build stronger relationships, foster mutual understanding, and create inclusive environments where everyone feels heard and valued.
Practising assertive communication
Practising assertive communication is a powerful way to empower your voice and advocate for your needs and desires. Here are some exercises and techniques to help you practice assertive communication:
Role-playing: Enlist the help of a trusted friend or family member to role-play different scenarios. Practice expressing yourself assertively, using “I” statements, active listening, and respectful body language.
Journaling: Write in a journal to clarify your thoughts and feelings before engaging in assertive communication. This can help you organize your ideas and express them more effectively when the time comes.
Positive affirmations: Develop positive affirmations that reinforce your self-worth and assertiveness. Repeat these affirmations daily to boost your confidence and belief in your ability to communicate assertively.
Seek support: Join a support group or seek counselling to explore assertive communication in a safe and supportive environment. Working with a professional can provide guidance, feedback, and encouragement as you develop your assertiveness skills.
Reflect on past experiences: Reflect on past situations where you may have missed opportunities to communicate assertively. Identify what you would do differently now and use these insights to guide your future assertive communication.
Celebrate progress: Recognize and celebrate your progress in practising assertive communication. Every step forward, no matter how small, is a step towards empowering your voice and creating stronger connections with others.
Remember, assertive communication is a skill that develops over time with practice and self-reflection. By committing to the process and embracing your own voice, you can become a confident and assertive communicator.
Conclusion
Embracing different communication styles, particularly assertive communication, is essential for fostering healthy relationships, effective leadership, and personal empowerment. Understanding the various communication styles and their characteristics allows individuals to navigate interactions with empathy and respect. By practising assertive communication, individuals can express themselves honestly and respectfully, while also considering the needs and boundaries of others.
Assertive communication offers numerous benefits, including clear expression of thoughts and feelings, healthy boundaries, reduced conflicts, and increased self-confidence. It empowers individuals to take charge of their lives, advocate for their needs, and build stronger connections with others.
By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, individuals can embrace different communication styles, practice assertive communication, and empower their voices to create meaningful and fulfilling relationships.
If you or your organization need support in improving employee well-being and fostering effective communication, consider partnering with 1to1help. As India’s leading Employee Assistance Program (EAP) service provider, we are dedicated to promoting well-being and providing quality support. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and how we can help your organisation thrive.
Performance appraisal is a crucial process in organizations that evaluates employees’ job performance and provides feedback to help them improve. It serves as a tool to assess employees’ strengths and weaknesses, set goals, and recognize their achievements. The practice of performance appraisal is not just beneficial for employees, but also for managers and the organization as a whole.
The process of conducting performance appraisals is often disliked by managers. Appraisal time is also an uncomfortable and stressful time for both employees and managers requiring careful evaluation and constructive feedback.
Two questions every employee needs answers to are “What is my job?” and “How am I doing?” Regular feedback on these questions is one of the most effective tools an employer uses to increase productivity.
Studies show that providing good feedback to employees can increase productivity by 11 to 20 per cent. The yearly performance appraisals are the best way a company provides feedback to its employees.
The Purpose of Performance Appraisal in Organizations
The primary purpose of performance appraisal in organizations is to assess employees’ job performance and provide constructive feedback. It allows managers to evaluate how well employees are meeting their job responsibilities, achieving their goals, and contributing to the organization’s overall success.
Additionally, performance appraisal helps identify areas where employees need further development or training, ensuring that their skills align with the organization’s objectives.
Moreover, performance appraisal serves as the basis for making important decisions related to promotions, salary increases, and career development opportunities.
By having a systematic evaluation process in place, organizations can ensure fairness and transparency in their decision-making.
Performance appraisal also helps managers identify high-performing employees who can be considered for leadership roles or given additional responsibilities.
How Managers Approach Performance Appraisal
When it comes to performance appraisal, managers play a pivotal role in ensuring its effectiveness. They consider various aspects when conducting performance appraisals. They assess employees’ job knowledge, skills, and abilities, their ability to meet deadlines, and their interpersonal and communication skills. Furthermore, managers evaluate employees’ adherence to organizational values and their overall commitment to the organization’s mission.
Some common tasks that managers take up as a part of the appraisal process are:
Decide on the method of appraisal to use.
Giving accurate feedback.
Motivating the employees if their performance is not up to the mark.
Giving feedback without making it look as if they are favouring some employees over others. This would create unease in the work environment.
Seeing and evaluating each employee independently to avoid any comparison
The correct way of giving feedback, especially a negative one. A well-intentioned decision can be misinterpreted by an employee if not delivered well.
Juggling between the welfare of the organisation and the employees.
Listening to the employees and taking their point of view in a rational and understanding manner at the same time being able to put their own points forward in a firm way.
The Employee’s Perspective on Performance Appraisal
For employees, performance appraisal can evoke a range of emotions, from anticipation to anxiety. It is a time when their performance and contributions are under scrutiny, and the outcome can have a significant impact on their career progression. It is essential for organisations to create a positive and supportive environment during the appraisal process to alleviate employees’ concerns and make it avaluable experience.
Employees often feel a sense of validation and recognition when their accomplishments are acknowledged during the performance appraisal. It reinforces their confidence and motivates them to continue striving for excellence. On the other hand, if the feedback received is primarily focused on areas needing improvement, employees may feel demotivated and undervalued. Therefore, it is crucial for managers to balance constructive criticism with positive feedback to maintain employees’ morale.
Moreover, employees appreciate when managers take the time to listen to their perspectives during the performance appraisal. It allows them to share any challenges they may be facing, seek guidance, or propose ideas for their professional development. When employees feel heard and understood, they are more likely to be engaged and committed to their work.
How does the employee feel? Some of the common emotions experienced by employees:
A feeling of anxiety and apprehension about the reports.
Concern about what colleagues would say about the performance report.
Feeling stressed throughout the period.
Losing his/her cool with colleagues, family and friends.
Preoccupation with the entire process of appraisal and its outcome.
Employees whose reports were not up to the mark may feel embittered, dejected, or discouraged – and at times may even get aggressive. This may persist for many weeks after the appraisal.
They may also feel that the employees who got a better report were favoured by the management, hence a feeling of jealousy and insecurity.
The better performing employees on the other hand may have a feeling of superiority.
How can the appraisal process be more meaningful?
Performance appraisals can be seen as daunting and unhelpful, but they actually have the potential to be beneficial for everyone involved. By considering a few important factors, managers can transform the appraisal process into a valuable experience that helps employees grow and succeed.
To make the performance appraisal process more meaningful, managers should consider the following approaches:
Approach with Empathy
Managers need to approach the process with empathy, understanding the impact it can have on employees’ motivation and job satisfaction. Managers should create a supportive environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their performance and receiving feedback.
Provide Specific Examples
Managers should provide specific examples of employees’ achievements or areas needing improvement. This helps employees understand how their performance is perceived and gives them a clear direction for growth.
Encourage Open Communication
Managers should also encourage open and honest communication, allowing employees to share their perspectives on their performance and discuss any challenges they may be facing.
How Performance Appraisals Can Motivate Employees
Performance appraisals, when conducted effectively, can be a powerful tool for motivating employees.
Recognizing and appreciating employees’ efforts and achievements boosts their morale and encourages them to perform at their best. By setting clear goals and providing feedback on their progress, employees feel a sense of purpose and direction, which contributes to their motivation.
Additionally, performance appraisals can serve as a platform for career development discussions. When employees see opportunities for growth and advancement within the organisation, they are more likely to be motivated to enhance their skills and take on new challenges. Managers can use performance appraisal discussions to identify employees’ aspirations and align them with the organization’s goals, fostering a sense of ownership and motivation.
It is also important for managers to consider the individual needs and preferences of employees during the performance appraisal process. Some employees may value public recognition, while others may prefer private feedback sessions. By tailoring the appraisal process to meet employees’ preferences, managers can create a more personalized experience that enhances motivation and engagement.
The Role of Feedback in Performance Appraisal
Feedback plays a crucial role in the performance appraisal process. It provides employees with valuable information about their strengths and areas needing improvement, helping them grow and develop professionally.
During performance appraisal discussions, managers should highlight employees’ achievements and successes, reinforcing positive behaviours. They should also provide guidance on how employees can improve their performance in areas where they may be falling short. Constructive feedback should be delivered in a respectful and supportive manner, emphasizing the potential for growth and development.
Regular feedback throughout the year, rather than solely during the performance appraisal, is essential for employees’ continuous improvement. Managers should establish an open-door policy, encouraging employees to seek feedback and guidance whenever needed. This ongoing feedback creates a culture of learning and development, fostering a sense of trust and partnership between managers and employees.
Is Employee Wellbeing to Blame for Underperformance?
In some cases, underperformance during performance appraisals can be attributed to employee well-being issues. Factors such as stress, burnout, or personal challenges can significantly impact an employee’s ability to perform at their best. It is crucial for managers to consider the holistic well-being of employees when evaluating their performance.
Organizations can support employee well-being by implementing Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). These programs provide employees with access to professional support, such as counselling services, mental health resources, and work-life balance initiatives. By prioritizing employee well-being, organizations can create a supportive environment that helps employees overcome challenges and perform at their full potential.
1to1help: India’s Leading Employee Assistance Program
1to1help is India’s leading Employee Assistance Program (EAP) service provider, known for its commitment to quality and integrity, offering a variety of programs and services designed to improve employee well-being and promote a healthy work-life balance. Through 1to1Help’s EAP, organizations can provide employees with access to professional counsellors, confidential support, and resources to enhance their mental health and overall well-being.
By partnering with 1to1help, organizations can demonstrate their commitment to employee well-being and create a supportive culture that values the holistic development of employees.
Performance appraisal is a vital process that benefits both employees and managers in organizations. It provides a platform for evaluating employees’ job performance, setting goals, and recognizing their achievements.
Appraisal time is certainly not easy on any of the people involved. Yet being able to handle it well is crucial to individual and team development and productivity. By approaching performance appraisal with empathy and understanding, managers can create a supportive environment that motivates employees to excel. Regular feedback, coupled with a focus on employee well-being, contributes to the overall success of the organization.
1to1help is India’s leading Employee Assistance Program (EAP) service provider with a reputation for quality with integrity. We support organizations to improve employee well-being, through a variety of programmes.
