#team-motivation

#team-motivation

We were just so hurt by how [the season] ended, we realized we needed to figure out what we were going to be as a team, before these freshmen came in, and we all needed to be on the same page.

The Leafs are playing as if they are scared to win, and not afraid to lose. It looks as though they are just there because they need to be, and with no playoffs on the horizon, they just don't play together and feel as though what's the point? From an outside perspective, this could be completely different in the locker room, but it seems as if they don't care to win, or even don't hate to lose.

Before the game against Inter, AC Milan went into a huddle, and Mike Maignan's words to his teammates have been revealed. Seeing a team go into a huddle is nothing new, and before the win this Sunday, the captain had a few words to say to his teammates before one of the biggest games of their season, and one of his best performances. 'No fear' So, before kick-off, the Milan team gathered, with Maignan leading the talk, and now, thanks to a video shared in the AC Milan Reddit group, his words can be heard.

In fact, according to Javi Miguel on Catalunya Radio, one of the heavyweights of the Barcelona dressing room addressed the players after the loss and made it clear that it was the only victory Real Madrid were going to taste against them this season. "Let them enjoy it, it will be the only game they will beat us this season," was the message from the unnamed senior leaders of the team.

It's tough to keep a team motivated when the strategy from the top keeps shifting. Without clear direction leaders have to figure out how to set priorities, keep morale up, and make sure their team's work has an impact. That's the challenge facing a leader who's going by "Michael", to protect his identity. He built an internal consulting team at a large global organization. Mid-level managers value the group, but the C-suite barely knows they exist.

Recognition is often overlooked. Managers assume a salary alone is enough, but people want to feel appreciated for their unique contributions. Phrases like this can help motivate your team: "I really appreciate how you handled that client", or "Your attention to detail made all the difference in this project". Small acknowledgements cost nothing but can deliver a huge motivational boost.