What if your watch tracked your engagement at work?
Most folks I know have a FitBit, Garmin or Apple Watch which tracks their movement, exercise, sleep and other things. I have one too. I like knowing how far I’ve walked or paddled or how many calories I’ve burned while exercising. My watch also buzzes and reminds me to “MOVE!” at various intervals. It’s a helpful reminder.
Just imagine your watch buzzing and saying “ENGAGE!” or “CONNECT!” or “COMMUNICATE!” OR “REFLECT!”? Now that would keep us moving in the right direction.
Employee engagement helps organizations succeed in every way. Engaged employees positively contribute to every metric that’s measured. You can’t survive without engagement. BUT…most of us aren’t motivated by this fact.
Most of us are motivated by the internal benefits of being engaged. Unfortunately, we forget to recognize those when they are happening.
In my workshops for leaders, I have an exercise where I ask folks to brainstorm about the PERSONAL benefits of being satisfied, energized & productive (AKA engaged) at work. Try answering these questions on your own right now…
Some of the most common answers I hear include:
- Improved energy
- Better relationships at work and home
- Feelings of pride and joy
- Better sleep
- Lower stress
Instead of waiting for someone else to engage you, try looking for internal ways to feel satisfied, energized & productive.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Great Gratitude Triggers™ – things that remind you to stop and feel grateful
- Hang out with positive people – let the negative folks go
- Reflect on your values and what’s really important related to your job
- Connect what’s important to the work you do
- Have fun!
Okay, your engagement buzzing watch is still under development so it’s up to you to power the movement for creating your own Professional Paradise every time you go to work. You’ll be happy you did!