Why listening drives motivation

We all think we're great listeners. In a room full of people, most will raise their hands if asked if they’re above average at listening. But here's the catch—our brains think at a rapid 1,000 to 3,000 words per minute, while we only listen at a much slower rate of 125 to 175 words per minute. No wonder listening feels like such a challenge.

We spent years honing our reading, writing, and speaking skills. How many of us ever had formal listening training? Spoiler: probably none. It's a skill we assume we’re good at but seldom practice deliberately.

The good news? There’s opportunity in that gap. If you can improve your ability to really listen, it can have a profound impact—especially in the workplace.

The Pygmalion Effect: How Listening Powers Growth

Consider this. In the 1960s, Harvard Professor Robert Rosenthal and elementary school principal Lenore Jacobson conducted a study that showed the profound impact of expectations on performance. Rosenthal randomly labeled certain students as “bloomers,” telling teachers these students were bound for success. Surprise! These randomly chosen students actually performed better, not because of their innate ability but because teachers treated them like high potentials.

This is called the Pygmalion Effect—when your belief in someone’s potential shapes their own belief and leads to greater success. It’s a simple but powerful idea: treat people like they’re high potential, and they just might live up to it.

Real Motivation Comes from Listening

Long-term motivation doesn't come from pep talks or trendy office perks. It’s much simpler: understand who your people are and what they care about. Next time you sit down with your team, give them your full attention. Listen with intention. When you show your team that you genuinely care and make them feel heard, they’ll be more motivated, more engaged, and ready to give their best.

Challenge Yourself

Now that you’re aware of the impact of listening, it’s time to put it into practice. Start by creating an environment where listening thrives. Put away all distractions—close your laptop, shut off your phone, and clear your mind of unrelated thoughts. 

Challenge yourself to listen with intention and attention during your next two meetings. Focus fully on what’s being said, not just the words but the emotions and ideas behind them. Here are some questions to help guide you.

• What challenges are you facing with this? – Allows the speaker to express difficulties and concerns.

• What options have you considered? – Invites them to share their thought process and potential solutions.

• How can I help you move forward with this? – Shows you're actively engaged in finding a way forward.