It’s come to that time when I have to make a decision with my car! Do I run it until it breaks or do I part exchange it while it’s still worth something? Normally I go down the route of getting my car fixed, repaired and parts replaced to keep it going, but this time I have decided to avoid all of that expense and bite the bullet to buy a new (er) car.
In my job, reliability is important when it comes to travel. I can’t afford to break down and not show up for a client as it could damage our reputation and cost us money. I don’t really want to buy it, but it’s a wise thing to do.
So now I’ve made the decision, I am noticing loads of cars I’d like. I have been spending quite a bit of time test driving different cars, at different garages. This one is too sporty and for a younger person (my wife said!) the other is too big and comfortable (for an old man, I said) but I finally found something I like and it’s in the right price range.
It’s been nice to spend time looking and, for once, not having to rush to make a decision. I have been a bit fussy and not saying my normal thing of “I suppose that will do” has been refreshing. I have actually looked at reviews, other prices on auto trader and checked if it has enough gadgets on it, before I committed to buy. Now I am excited to pick it up, and, feel like a kid at Christmas.
The impact this has on the business is quite remarkable. I am even more motivated to work on delivering days for our clients and looking at developing our offering to secure existing contracts.
It has made me focus more on the plan for 2019 and I’m keen to achieve our targets.
Motivation for me is quite simple, I need to see rewards for my effort, feel valued and contribute to the team. I need to feel like I make a difference with the workshops I deliver and get feedback to keep me on track and keep the standard high.
Today I have been in London delivering a session for 42 graduates and the feedback, already, has been amazing. I am motivated to go back in again tomorrow to work with this group, who are the future leaders in this business.
Normally motivation is driven by four things:
Autonomy – having a voice
Belonging – fitting in
Competence – constantly learning and developing
Meaning – understanding the big picture and reason you are doing what you do
If you are not ticking these boxes, motivation could be diluted and short lived, but the good thing is that it doesn’t take much to relight the fire again. I have just done that by identifying why I do what I do (Meaning) – my work provides my lifestyle and helps me have an impact on others.
The car and the feedback make it all worthwhile.