Organisations are full of outstanding human talent. People are capable of achieving impressive results if the circumstances are provided that draw out their optimum performance. People gain a sense of identity, value and significance through their work. The vast majority of people want to do a good job, make a valuable contribution and be appreciated in ways that are meaningful to them.
Everyone begins trying their best within their ability and circumstances. If they are no longer doing that, it is because they have had experiences that have caused them to lose faith and come to believe the investment it is not worth it. Their current behaviour is a coping mechanism.
There are three primary elements that need to be addressed in any situation relating to human performance.
If any of these are missing or inadequate it will lead to deterioration in performance and therefore results. Most people have learned a great deal and have a sound intellectual understanding of many concepts, strategies and approaches. Unfortunately this is often not translated into behavioural applications due to a lack of emotional learning. Enabling them to challenge their beliefs or mindsets, deep emotional learning is often very difficult to achieve in the workplace. People naturally (and wisely) resist that level of vulnerability, especially once they enter a certain level of leadership or authority. Challenging beliefs or mindsets is the cornerstone to achieving unparalleled clarity.
“Most people already know the answers and have the skills. What they need is insight, awareness and a process of discovery, which allows them to access their greater wisdom. If we have the courage to face reality and deal with what we find, with an open heart and open mind, we can achieve the results we imagine.” Sarah Cornally