Acknowledging Performance Will Yield Better Results

You may be aware of the adage that comparison is the culprit behind the loss of happiness. However, it is important to note that an excessive preoccupation with productivity can also result in a decline in team performance. Attempting to exert complete control over all aspects can ultimately lead to disengagement and a lack of control. Prioritizing the outcome over the process allows employees the autonomy to achieve results in their own unique manner, thereby demonstrating trust in their abilities.

Here are four highlighted ways to lead with the mindset of prioritizing performance over productivity:

1. Keep in mind people want to contribute in some way. It’s true most people strive to perform optimally and aspire for their labor to be esteemed. It is imperative to presume the same of one’s team and reinforce this notion by elucidating objectives and enforcing responsibility in a constructive manner.
2. Let people do what they enjoy. Each person possesses certain aspects of their professional responsibilities that they thoroughly enjoy and demonstrate exceptional proficiency in, while there are also certain tasks that they find laborious. In order to foster motivation among individuals, it is imperative to identify their specific areas of interest and actively create opportunities for them to engage in those tasks.
3. Nurture and encourage professional growth. Keep in mind that burnout does happen. Experiencing a sense of being trapped in a repetitive cycle akin to that of a hamster wheel is also bad for one’s mental health. Conversely, feeling that one’s work is purposeful, with prospects for personal and professional growth, and receiving encouragement from management to develop professionally is highly desirable. When employees perceive potential in their role and the organization, they are more inclined to perform well.

Take Away: The most effective approach to prioritize the ultimate goal is to refrain from direct concentration on it. Enhanced outcomes and productivity will naturally arise when individual employees and teams are empowered, consequently resulting in an elevation of performance and increased profitability.