The Gift of Inspiration in Leadership

Introduction

I remember asking one of my early managers what made him such an effective leader.  Without hesitation, he replied that he motivates people to succeed.   At the time, I couldn’t pinpoint why, but his response felt incomplete. Now I realize what was missing: leadership isn’t just about external motivation. Employees who consistently perform above expectations don’t need to be driven by external factors as much as they need inspiration that rises from within.  When that internal fire is sparked, it unlocks a profound energy that fuels passion, drive, and purpose. This intrinsic fire connects people to a larger organizational vision in a way that is both enduring and deeply personal.

Motivation Instead of Inspiration

Motivation relies on the classic “carrot and stick” approach which assumes that people are driven by external rewards (the “carrot”) or deterred by threats of punishment (the “stick”). If you dangle something in front of someone valuable, they will be motivated to perform and succeed.   As rewards are repeatedly given, the impact diminishes, forcing the “carrots” to grow larger and more challenging for leaders to sustain.  Over time the strategy yields diminishing returns, as the reliance on external incentives fails to create genuine, lasting engagement.  True leadership depends on the ability to inspire, which taps into intrinsic motivation and ignites something more sustainable.

Inspiration That Rises From Within

Inspiration works by lighting a fire of intrinsic motivation.   Once a candle is lit, its flame can endure and even flourish to ignite others.   A study by Thrash and Elliot found that inspiration is strongly correlated with intrinsic motivation, showing people work harder and show more creativity when inspired.  Inspired people are mentally connected to their challenges, experience ease in performance, and align spiritually with an authentic purpose. The “carrot” is only a part of the success, and inspiration resonates deeper with core beliefs and values.

The Inspiration Action Plan

Often the ability to inspire starts with leaders discovering their fire.   When leaders connect deeply with their purpose and core beliefs, they exude confidence which resonates with a wider audience. Inspiration can illuminate human experiences which encompass hope, struggle, and triumph. This emotional authenticity fosters trust and connection, making others more willing to align with the leader’s vision. The passion of excitement is contagious with people more willing to align with the leader’s mission and work for something greater than financial success.

Once a leader has found their source of inspiration that rises from within, connection to a team can be built holistically through mind, body, and spirit.   Effective leaders see beyond employees as merely economic beings and instead look at them as people with hearts and souls who crave connection and meaning. This holistic approach blends intellectual engagement with emotional resonance, fostering a culture where purpose and fulfillment are a focus.  When people are connected to a community, their adoption of a mission is easier.

Conclusion

In the end, while motivation through “the carrot and stick” approach has its merits, inspiration that rises from within transcends it. By igniting the intrinsic fire within themselves and others, leaders can create a culture of passion, purpose, and sustainable success. This will fulfill the deeper human need to connect, grow, and contribute to something meaningful and bolster an organizations vision for the future. Coaching can help leaders find the inspiration necessary and become the and effective leader in the organization.

Brian McKeon
About the author

Brian McKeon is an executive coach that focuses on partnering with senior professionals to build a foundation for transformational change that is authentic, purposeful and honors a client’s unique talents. The partnership will develop critical self-management skills that will be the foundation of sustained performance over a career. Brian’s practice also incorporates mindfulness to broaden self-awareness and to open clients up to positive change.

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