Motivation

The example of an iceberg shows the need to see under people's

surface behaviour; the need of a deeper insight.

Only 10% of an iceberg is visible on the surface, 90% is under the

waterline, invisible, but yet prominent. If there is a wind coming

from left to right, just by seeing the visible mass, we think it will

move the iceberg to towards the right. If, against all expectations,

the iceberg moves in the opposite direction (left), it is because,

under the waterline, there is a strong current running towards the

left.

Sometimes you, as a leader, try to move people in a certain

direction by giving them orders, instructions, explanations and

encouragement, but you do it on the basis of what you see above

the surface. The visible part represents what is at the surface such

as appearance, behaviour, manners etc. You do not see what

moves them under the surface so you become surprised and

maybe frustrated seeing them move in the opposite direction. The

main part, which is the 90% not visible, is within the

subconscious. Under the surface (subconscious) you will find

emotions, fears, attitudes, deeply held values etc.

If you want to move people, if you want to motivate others for a

project or even just to reach others, you need to be aware of

these kinds of things that you find under the surface. The key to

understanding others better is to be more aware of your own

feelings and under-currents, because, at a deep level, we are very

much alike. If you understand your own fears and strong

motivators, you will understand others much better.