Inspiration is not just the Beach at Trouville

Considering the report by CBSNews that this year’s Gallup survey shows 70% of employees are not inspired by their work, the journey to achieving inspiration and engagement may seem unrealistic. In Greek mythology, inspiration was thought to be accessible only through muses, who appeared to certain people at certain times. Though the concept of muses is a less popular belief in modern culture, inspiration still remains elusive. However, those who spend time to better acquaint themselves with inspiration have learned it’s not an elusive mythological being, but an achievable and maintainable state of existing. For that matter, inspiration is known to have two qualities. First, it is catalytic and second, it’s collectively infectious, especially in the workplace.

How to create an Inspirational Work Culture

1.       Stay on Target

Great leaders don’t change history by solving unimportant issues, just as multi-million dollar companies don’t succeed without meeting a need. When it comes to maintaining inspiration in the workplace, managers and organizations should regularly visit and re-visit the organization’s mission.

2.       Invest in your players

In Human Capital is an Important Factor for the Success of an Organization , Ravindu Gamage states that Human capital is a valuable resource, because it recognizes that people should be treated as assets, rather than as an expense. Within this frame of mind, every employee should be valued and nurtured within a company. This can be accomplished through investing in employee’s talents and interests, as well as utilizing the Five Languages for Engagement TM.

3.       Guide relentlessly

When solving the puzzle that is inspiration, why not turn to some of the most inspired and loved artists in history? Eugene Boudin: The Man Who Inspired Monet is perhaps a fitting article for consideration.

The Beach at Trouville
By: Boudin

Boudin saw Monet’s charcoal drawings and knew he could do more. Though Monet was not particularly interested in painting, Boudin kept encouraging him to paint with him on the beach. Finally, after some time and Boudin’s continued guidance, similar to the inception of a firework, Monet bloomed and became passionate about painting, moving forward to lead the impressionist movement. Good leaders see potential and invest in their employees with care and unwavering determination.

4.       Share stories

When in doubt of the power of storytelling, simply refer to the IMDB highest grossing box office films, with Avatar topping the list at $760,505,847. People love stories and are propelled by their motivational influence. Just as books line the shelves at Barnes and Noble and movies continually flow into theaters, stories cycle through every company and every office. The key is to become the narrator of inspiring stories about the general human condition which minimizes differences in people and capitalizes on their collective power and determination to win.  Tell humorous and motivational stories by the water cooler and in meetings.  Your stories will strengthen work culture by inspiring others, as well as influencing them to share positive memories.

5.       Inspire with motivation

Countless studies have shown that employees, who are challenged by their roles, excel and strengthen their organizations. Challenges lead to trial and tribulations, resulting in learning and growth. Heard of the saying, “couples who play together stay together?” It’s even truer in organizations.  Engagement comes from participation in common goals.  In order to “keep the fire burning,” continual skill building is vital. Take employees out of their comfort zones and challenge them to do more.

Inspiration isn’t something that can be touched or tasted, but it is certainly something that can be influenced and felt. So go forth, and inspire.