Your job is to assist those you are leading to accomplish a goal.  For the most part this involves the “What” and “How” items needed to avoid unmet expectations.  Getting everyone on the same page (or at least a portion of their maps that are common and shared) is the “What” part.  Making sure they have the training, skill, practice, tools, and time to accomplish the mission is the How part.  It sounds easy until you realize that it is rare that you will  have all of these items perfectly aligned.  So, you make lemonade if all you have are lemons.  But you make sure that those  you are serving are not expecting champagne.

Motivation belongs to the individual.  The leader must adjust the scenario and environment in order to align the individual’s motivations and talents with the needs of the organization.  People like to know that what they are doing is worthwhile and that they are contributing to a greater purpose than themselves alone.  Providing a vision of the importance of their work along with appreciation for their efforts are integral to inspiring people.  This is where balance between the successes and failures comes in.  Celebrating success and working to overcome failure gives people hope and helps drive despair out of your organization.