Inspired Versus Required Action

I saw this great article a few days ago by Admiral Thad Allen. It's filled with nuggets of leadership wisdom. Thad suggests that inspired action by employees happen when people know why they are doing something and how their work fits into the larger mission. When people are simply asked to do something because the boss says so, it becomes required action. Inspiring people is hard work and Thad also offers a few pointers here including the importance of writing down your organization's mission, working harder on the mission than your people, knowing more than (or at least trying to know more than) your people and recognizing (and rewarding) positive actions from team-members. A highly worthwhile and short read!