Greetings, esteemed leaders in the corporate world. Today, we're embarking on a journey that lies at the heart of every leader's aspirations – the exploration of what genuinely motivates us. As we navigate the complexities of our roles, understanding our motivations can be a compass that guides us through the dynamic landscapes of the corporate arena.

You might have wondered this question before: "What truly drives an empowered leader?" It's a question that uncovers the essence of our actions, the source from which our dedication comes. As we dig deeper into this topic, we'll navigate through the layers of motivation, bringing light to what drives us forward.

In many instances, we find ourselves driven by motives originating from what we refer to as the "inner compass." These motivations are often rooted in fear, scarcity or lack, or the desire for external validation. They can lead us down a path where we chase approval, control, or security, creating a cycle that seems never-ending.

However, in the realm of empowered leadership, there's another dimension of motivation waiting to be discovered.

As we embark on our journey of personal growth and development, a transformation takes place. We begin to witness a shift from fear-based motivations to ones that arise from a place of deep awareness and authenticity. This shift begins when we acknowledge and embrace our emotions, even the uncomfortable ones like fear and guilt. Instead of avoiding them, we include them, recognizing the wisdom they hold to guide our growth.

The magic happens when we allow these feelings to guide us towards insights and creativity. For instance, if you're facing challenging team dynamics that hinder collaboration and communication, leaning into the discomfort can inspire you to introduce open forums for transparent dialogue, mentorship programs or team-building exercises. 

The transition to a more authentic source of motivation doesn't happen overnight. We might experience a phase of "motivational exploration," where our old motivational drives lose their application. Yet, this phase serves as a bridge, inviting fresh perspectives to emerge.

So, what are these new avenues of motivation that empowered leaders begin to explore?

Engagement & Play: Often associated with childhood, incorporating engagement and playful elements into our tasks can make them more enjoyable and productive. It's about finding joy in what we do, enhancing our sense of creativity and innovation.

Purpose: As we let go of fear-based motives, we open ourselves to a higher sense of purpose. No longer driven by the idea of lack and scarcity, we begin to explore what we can contribute and achieve in our organizations. Purpose guides us towards meaningful actions.

Presence: In a world full of distractions, presence becomes a valuable asset. It's about being fully aware and engaged in the current moment. When we're present, we can make informed decisions, lead with clarity, and foster connections with our team.

Collaboration: Building relationships based on collaboration rather than dependency transforms our interactions. When we release the need for others to fulfil our emotional needs, we can collaborate and create synergies that drive us all forward.

Intrinsic Value: An intrinsic love and appreciation for our work brings a deeper motivation. When we appreciate tasks for what they are, not just what they provide us, we become driven by an authentic connection to our roles.

As we navigate through these evolving motivations, we recognize that fear-based motives leave behind a trail of negativity. On the other hand, motivations rooted in authenticity and understanding lead to a sense of fulfilment and positivity. This realization is a catalyst for the shift towards empowered leadership.

In conclusion, the journey to empowered leadership involves uncovering the sources of our motivation. By exploring these motives and embracing the transformative journey, we step into a realm of leadership that's both fulfilling and impactful. We invite you to continue this exploration with us. Explore our website to dive deeper into the world of empowered leadership and motivation.