Primed to Perform
A guide to fostering high performance through motivational culture.
Summary of 7 Key Points
Key Points
- The Science of Total Motivation
- Cultural Levers to Drive Performance
- Overcoming Direct and Indirect Motivation
- Tactics for Enhancing Total Motivation
- Assessing Organizational Culture
- Case Studies of High-Performing Cultures
- Tools for Building and Sustaining Performance
key point 1 of 7
The Science of Total Motivation
In ‘Primed to Perform’, the authors argue that the key to high performance lies in fostering total motivation (ToMo) within individuals. Total Motivation is a combination of six main drivers: play, purpose, potential, emotional pressure, economic pressure, and inertia. Of these, play, purpose, and potential are known as direct motives since they directly improve performance. Play is about the joy of the work itself, purpose is the outcome or impact of the work, and potential is the value of the work in contributing to an individual’s identity or long-term goals…Read&Listen More
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Cultural Levers to Drive Performance
Culture, as a key driver of performance, is shaped by six cultural levers according to the book. These levers include Play, Purpose, Potential, Emotional Pressure, Economic Pressure, and Inertia. ‘Play’ is about the joy of doing the work itself, while ‘Purpose’ is about the impact and meaning that work provides. ‘Potential’ refers to the inherent value that work brings to one’s personal growth or future…Read&Listen More
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Overcoming Direct and Indirect Motivation
In the realm of motivation, the concept of direct and indirect motivation is elucidated. Direct motivation occurs when the task itself is engaging and meaningful to the person performing it. It is intrinsic and stems from an individual’s inherent interest or enjoyment in the task. This type of motivation has a positive impact on performance and productivity. Individuals who are directly motivated take pleasure in the task itself, and this intrinsic satisfaction fuels their drive to perform better…Read&Listen More
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Tactics for Enhancing Total Motivation
Total Motivation (ToMo) is a core concept that speaks about the various driving forces behind human actions. There are six main motives divided into two categories: direct motives (play, potential, purpose) and indirect motives (emotional pressure, economic pressure, inertia). Direct motives positively impact ToMo, leading to superior performance, while indirect motives negatively impact ToMo, causing subpar performance. ..Read&Listen More
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Assessing Organizational Culture
Assessing organizational culture is about understanding the behavior of individuals within a company and how it influences their performance and overall company’s success. This process involves analyzing the core beliefs, values, and attitudes within the organization that drive employee behavior. Key elements include the level of transparency within the company, communication style, how decisions are made, and the organization’s approach towards innovation and change. Also, it involves evaluating the level of employee engagement and satisfaction, the leadership style, and the company’s way of handling conflict and crisis…Read&Listen More
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Case Studies of High-Performing Cultures
The first case study examines Google, a company renowned for its high-performing, innovative culture. It highlights Google’s commitment to creating a supportive and challenging environment. This environment encourages employees to take risks and pursue their ideas without fear of failure. The company’s belief in ‘Psychological Safety’ allows employees to feel safe to ask questions and share their thoughts. It’s a culture that fosters a strong sense of belonging and collaboration, leading to high levels of motivation, engagement, and performance…Read&Listen More
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Tools for Building and Sustaining Performance
In a world where business performance is key to success, leaders and managers often seek tools and strategies to enhance productivity and ensure sustainability. One of the most effective tools for building and sustaining performance is the concept of ‘total motivation’ (ToMo). This concept revolves around the idea that individuals perform best when motivated by internal or intrinsic factors such as passion for their work, rather than external factors like money or status. Intrinsic motivation leads to high levels of creativity and productivity, thus enhancing overall performance…Read&Listen More