Below are factors that influence our motivation and subsequent behaviour.
Guilt makes us take risks
Individuals who perceive they have greater control over events are more likely to feel guilty and also take risks.
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Leaders feel guilty
Individuals who experience more guilt are perceived as better leaders.
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Motivated by choice
Directive messages (‘Use the stairs!’) are more effective at influencing behaviour when the individual doesn’t have much time to think things through. When they do have time, they tend to prefer messages that highlight choice (‘Will you use the stairs?).
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Green offices promote productivity
Research shows that workplaces with plants improve productivity and job satisfaction, and perceptions that the air quality is better. It isn’t clearly understood why but could be the result of improved air quality, which optimises concentration. Alternatively, employees may simply feel more satisfied because they perceive management to care.
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Shock tactics can backfire
Shock/fear appeals to promote health and safety can make people take risks. For example, highlighting risks of skin cancer can make people tan and highlighting dangers of speeding can make people drive more recklessly.
Push yourself in the morning
Completing two demanding tasks at the start of a work day helps people work harder throughout the day.
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Handwritten notes are more honest
People are more likely to lie when writing an email than when writing something with pen and paper.
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Demanding tasks can impair concentration
After completing a demanding task, people find it harder to concentrate on a subsequent task.
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Smiling helps relieve stress
Smiling—even a forced smile—can momentarily increase resilience. Specifically, a person’s heart rate lowers when completing a stressful task.
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