Story: Years ago, a manager told me about one of his quietest employees, a woman named Linda, who rarely spoke in meetings. After a big project finished, he took 30 seconds to say, “Linda, your attention to detail saved this project.” She later told him no one in 15 years had ever noticed her work—and that one comment changed how she saw herself. Her energy tripled.

► 2. Stop hoarding information.

When people don’t know what’s going on, they fill in the blanks—and those blanks are almost always negative.

Story: I once worked with a company where rumors were flying that layoffs were coming. Anxiety was sky-high. The truth? The company was actually planning promotions. The CEO just hadn’t told anyone yet because “he wanted it to be a surprise.” That surprise cost him three top performers who left before the announcement.

When in doubt, communicate more, not less. Explain the “why,” not just the “what.” Share what you know—and when you don’t know, say that too. Honesty builds clarity. Clarity builds motivation.

Of course, some leaders think, “I don’t have the time to keep my people up to date on everything.”

But if you don’t have the time to keep your people informed now, how will you find the time to correct their misunderstandings later?

► 3. Stop minimizing learning and growth.

Everyone has an inner need to grow. When people stop learning, they start coasting—and then quitting, mentally if not physically.

Story: A friend of mine, a talented nurse, once told me she left her job not because of the hours or pay but because “no one ever taught me anything new.” She said, “I was doing the same thing year after year. I wanted to get better, but no one cared.” Within six months at her new hospital, where ongoing learning was encouraged, her whole attitude changed.

The lesson? Growth fuels engagement. If you’re a parent, teach your kids something new. If you’re a leader, offer training. If you’re a friend, challenge someone to stretch. Growth is oxygen for motivation.

► 4. Stop thinking only big gestures count.

If you think little acts of recognition don’t count, you’re wrong.

Oftentimes the little things are remembered more vividly and impact motivation more strongly than some formal reward or fancy recognition banquet. Indeed, most employees will express more excitement about the personal handwritten thank-you note from the President of the company than the $50 gift certificate put in the note.

The small things stick.

People remember the quick note, the pat on the back, the “You did great” text more than a gift card or plaque. It’s the personal touch that carries weight.

A while ago, my adult daughter said, “Dad, you always cheered the loudest at my concerts when I was a little kid.” Her comment reminded me that the little acknowledgments we think don’t matter are sometimes remembered for life.