Hi Reader,

I'm constantly asked: "How do I motivate my team?"

Here's the uncomfortable truth: You can't.

You can't inject motivation into people like a vitamin booster. You've either hired motivated people, or you haven't.

But let's dig deeper.. because this isn't about giving up. It's about understanding what you actually control.

Motivation = You + Them

The "YOU" Side (what's actually in your control)

Your responsibility is creating the conditions where motivation can thrive:

🔹 Are you crystal clear about WHY this work matters? (And no, "making more money" doesn't count)

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🔹 Can people connect their daily tasks to something meaningful?

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🔹 Are you telling the story that helps them see they're building something bigger than themselves?

The "THEM" Side (The hard reality)

You can craft the most compelling vision in the world, but if someone lacks inner drive or curiosity, you cannot manufacture it. Period.

The real question isn't "How do I motivate them?"​
It's "Did I hire someone who comes pre-loaded with motivation?"

Your Leadership Checklist

Instead of trying to be a motivation machine, ask yourself:

✅ Have you been super clear about the purpose and why it matters?
✅ Are you building spaces where people feel seen, valued, and powerful?
✅ Are you hiring for inner drive—not just skills? (Look for values, purpose, and that internal fuel)

The hardest part is accepting that some people just aren't wired for what you're building.

But let's be honest, that’s really good data to have.

Your wing woman,
Catherine

P.S. If you're nodding along but still feeling stuck with team dynamics, maybe it's time we talked. I help leaders build teams that actually want to be there.