Central to any worthy vision is the requirement to appreciate delayed gratification. Almost by definition, the vision a leader creates will require others to invest now in order to reap bigger rewards in the future. The problem is that people are not hardwired to value future pleasures as compared to immediate satisfaction. Postponing immediate gains makes us uneasy. What if the delayed rewards never materialize? A bird in hand, as they say.
Celebrating small steps towards that future vision is another important action. It helps activate intrinsic motivation to build momentum in making change.
Leader-hosted dialogue forums work well to help employees feel seen and heard especially early on... "What about the vision inspires you...what possibilities are you curious about? As you explored those ideas, what have you learned that you'd like to share with the team?" And acknowledging discomfort..."How can you be patient with yourself with what still feels uncertain? What can I do to encourage?" That gives the leader the chance to highlight specific actions employees are taking towards the vision, including empathy.
Celebrating small steps towards that future vision is another important action. It helps activate intrinsic motivation to build momentum in making change.
Leader-hosted dialogue forums work well to help employees feel seen and heard especially early on... "What about the vision inspires you...what possibilities are you curious about? As you explored those ideas, what have you learned that you'd like to share with the team?" And acknowledging discomfort..."How can you be patient with yourself with what still feels uncertain? What can I do to encourage?" That gives the leader the chance to highlight specific actions employees are taking towards the vision, including empathy.