In his article, "You Cannot Motivate Other People," Eddie Peters clearly states two facts: People will do things only for their own reasons, not yours. Therefore, only self-motivation is possible. It falls to the leader to create a group environment which encourages each member to express his/her self-motivation in a way productive to the group. ....but...how can such an environment be built? Essentially there are three steps. 1. DETERMINE INDIVIDUAL NEEDS First, you must have a good grasp of what makes each group member "tick." Consider the person(s) you wish to see motivated. What are that person's needs, strengths, weaknesses, desired rewards? What are his/her interests--toward what tasks is he/she likely to be self-motivated? 2. RELATE INDIVIDUAL NEEDS TO GROUP GOALS Second, suggest he/she pursue a project that suits his/her interests and coincides with the group's goals. If the member has been given a role in formulating these goals (as every member should), there will no doubt be some aspect that he/she will find relevant to personal interests. (If not, then maybe the member doesn't really belong.) Once assigned a task, the person is self-motivated to accomplish; little supervision is needed from you. However, assign a person a job they have no interest in and the likelihood of failure increases. Let each do what they CAN do. 3. DETERMINE AND FULFILL THE MEMBER'S GROUP NEEDS Finally, maintain a motivational atmosphere by relating a person's work to the needs of the group. As a leader, you should strive to give each group member... ...a sense of belonging...Convey "You are welcome. You are needed for your total self, not just your hands and your time." ...a share in planning group goals and rules...Convey "Your ideas will be listened to. We will arrive at goals that you can support." ...a sense of purpose in the task...Convey "What you are doing contributes significantly to the welfare of the group in these ways..." ...a clear understanding of duties...Convey "We need you to do A, B and C." ...challenging responsibilities...Convey "A, B and C aren't easy, but you can do them." ...knowledge that goals are being met...Convey "Because of your work A and B are done." ...a feeling of being in on things...Convey "You're involved. You're part of the mainstream." ...confidence in you, the leader...Convey "You will be treated fairly and recognized for your achievements."