1 Thought:

It’s said that no 2 snowflakes are exactly alike and that has also been said of us, people.

In some ways it’s very true that we are special, and unique, and one of a kind.

That said there are 2 actions that move us all to act, and those are the carrot and the consequence.

Pleasure and pain, loss and gain, prompt us to consider our actions and those we ask from others.

At home…”I need you to get that homework done now, or I’m taking away your T.V.” or “You’re doing great with your grades; keep them all either A’s and B’s and I’ll get you a car at the end of the school year”

At work…”That report better be complete by the end of the day or it’s your job” or “You get that report done and we get this new account on board you will get that promotion.”

The point is there is a place for both the carrot and the consequence. Whether we are the recipient, or the deliverer of this action, it’s inevitable and needed. In fact it’s just human nature.

That said, how can we better use both options regardless of which side we are on? Here are a few tips to help get your mindset right if you are on the receiving end of these options, as well as how you can make both options work best for you when delivering these options to others.

You are the one delivering the options:

Do they even like carrots?

Don’t threaten me!

Consequences are necessary, just like rewards. They shouldn’t be threats, but some weak managers use them that way. If you explain that the report is due by the end of the week and that failing to deliver it could lead to termination, it may not be pleasant, but it helps to clarify the stakes. You could also mention that without this project, we won’t have the resources and may have to lay off staff. It’s worth checking if there are any roadblocks preventing the completion of the project; if there are, I can help remove them. If not, the path should be clear.

You are the recipient:

I’ve always felt that consequences in most cases can be greatly diminished by saying what you’re going to do then actually doing it. Work your list, don’t let distractions slow you down and do the things you dislike first to remove the option of procrastination.

It is, however, inevitable to avoid every pending consequence that lays ahead, so I feel it imperative to make a paradigm shift with your mindset.

Example…you were given the end-of-week demand above with the project and knew that your job was at stake. Rather than letting fear affect your productivity, I’d suggest you recognize that getting this project done by the end of the week secures my footing at the company. People tend to be more productive when they see a light at the end of the tunnel; I know I always have.

In closing:

Fear is nothing but contaminated faith, so delivering or receiving consequences shouldn’t be a fearful situation. It should however have you lean on the skills and work ethic you know you have and put them to work or build the faith needed in who you provided a consequence.

Carrots aren’t the same for everyone; so get to know your audience so you get the greatest result.

1 Quote:

“When there is no consequence for poor work ethic, and no reward for good work ethic, there is no motivation.”

– Unknown

1 Question:

Can you take more time to understand what motivates those around you before determining the carrot? Can you take the time to deliver consequences with a “why”?

Can you flip your mindset so consequences are opportunities? Let them motivate you!

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