The Motive summary

Picture this: a hotshot young football star entering the elite realm of the National Football League. Basking in his new-found fame, he’s more keen on the glamor than the grind. He’s the athlete who slacks off during off-season training and doesn’t give his all in the game. Because he’s in it for the rewards, he’s less committed, less diligent, and eventually, less successful.

Now, switch gears and imagine a father, super excited about his new title – Dad. But he believes fatherhood is just another trophy to show off. Sure, he might roll the dice in an occasional board game or go to a school recital if it’s convenient. But wake up for a midnight feeding or help with algebra homework? Not his scene.

This same playbook is what’s unfolding in the boardrooms of major corporations worldwide. You’d think the suits and ties would know better, but no. The corporate arena is filled with CEOs who are driven by one of the two core motives that dictate how someone approaches leadership – and that motive is the seductive siren call of rewards. It’s the thrill of power, the glitz of money, the intoxicating allure of status, and the simple pleasure of having fun. This reward-centric outlook paints leadership as a luxurious prize, something to be indulged in, rather than an honorable duty to uplift and serve those around them. 

When leaders are blinded by their own gains, they inadvertently sideline the gritty, less-glamorous tasks that are the backbone of a thriving organization. Instead, they treat their roles like a trip to an amusement park – always chasing the thrill rides while avoiding the necessary maintenance tasks. They seem to forget that with great power – and a swanky office – comes great responsibility.

The worst part is that these reward-hungry leaders often don’t even realize they’re dropping the ball. They’re too busy passing off their duties to others, or worse, ignoring issues only they have the expertise to address. Some even strut around, flaunting their misguided priorities like it’s the latest fashion trend. “Look at me, I’m a CEO, and I just want the fun parts!”

And the result? Their teams are left in the lurch, scrambling without direction. Imagine working hard, looking up for guidance, and finding … well, crickets. It’s like having a ship captain who’s too busy sunbathing to steer. Employees scratch their heads, wondering if their situation is for real – and sadly, for many, it is.

Here’s the crazy part: this doesn’t apply to just a handful of misguided folks. A shocking number of otherwise brilliant CEOs plays this risky game. They see their position as a golden ticket to personal pleasures: wealth, prestige, excitement, you name it. By chasing only rewards and dodging the gritty stuff, they weaken their grip on true leadership.

Wondering if you have the wrong motive for leading? Let’s take a look at the tell-tale signs.