Why are we demotivated?

As kids, we are always happy; however, as we age, we somehow become more materialistic and lose that essence of happiness.

Similarly, as fresher in the corporate world, we tend to be more open, hopeful about the new learnings, and look forward with optimism. But, as we gain experience, our expectations increase; and when expectations are not met, negatives outweigh the positive aspects and we feel demotivated. Let's see how in our corporate life, we get demotivated:

A) When our performance does not match with the company’s expectations: Even though external factors hinder one’s performance along with internal factors, one fails to understand his own shortcomings and point out only the external factors for his mediocre performance. As time passes, everyone tries to point out other people for affecting the performance, and fail to understand the entire situation. Rather than working on the overall improvement of the team, we spread negativity about each other.

B) Improper feedback:

Companies do not always have robust feedback mechanisms to evaluate employees’ talent and performances. In this process, talent may go waste thereby bringing in dissatisfaction.

C) Late Appreciation and Promotions:

As promotions are limited, the competition soars up among the contenders and leads to politics. As we raise our expectations, any deviation would make us unhappy

D) Teamwork Challenges:

Teamwork affects a team’s performance greatly. As we work with other team members, we tend to help them, and we expect others to reciprocate the same. We forget that this may not always be possible; when others don’t reciprocate, we feel bad about the situation and curse ourselves for the help done before.

There could be more reasons too.

So, what shall we do? Wouldn't demotivating ourselves impede our growth?

The answer should be NO. This is where exceptional people stand out. Remember - The real talent is shining despite such situations.

A few things you can do to avoid getting demotivated:

A) Be realistic about yourself- Be confident about your strengths and open enough to accept your weaknesses. Once you accept your weaknesses, you have only the scope of being supported by others and avoid unnecessary arguments of covering up for your shortcomings.

B) Whenever you receive feedback, make sure you respond and not react- How good we are, we tend to miss some factors. Responses let others put their points and give us a chance to look at our approaches and correct them. Of course, others might be adamant about implementing their approaches at any cost. But, that’s not your problem. In the long run, your behavior stands out and lets you learn more and become successful.

C) Whenever you do not achieve your targets, make sure you are smart enough to understand your internal problems for not achieving the targets. External factors may not always be countered, but internal factors can definitely be worked upon. If you start focusing on your own problems, you improve slowly, and at a later point in time, you can definitely achieve what you wanted.

D) Lower expectations when working in teams. Everyone is not open enough to acknowledge your contribution.

E) Use a constructive approach, always- When your expectations are not met, follow the right channel, discuss the points, and propose the appropriate approaches to overcome the issue.

Above all, a reality check in understanding the company’s vision and its perception towards you helps you to envisage your prospects. When there is major misalignment, especially after many course corrections, it is time to find a better place.

Overall, first, start with self-improvement. Others can demotivate you only when you let others do. Understand that, follow that!

Also, read: Are you the best and humble too?