Oct 29, 2019
“Morale is a state of mind. It is that intangible force which will move a whole group of men to give their last ounce to achieve something, without counting the cost to themselves; that makes them feel they are part of something greater than themselves.” Defeat into Victory, Battling Japan in Burma and India, 1942-1945 Field-Marshall Viscount Bill Slim
In today's episode, I explore the topic of morale: What it is, the three foundations of morale, and how to build and sustain morale in your organization.
I will be draw on the wisdom of Field Marshal Bill Slim from his book Defeat Into Victory, which we previously covered in Episode 38.
Highlights Include:
- The definition of morale
- The power of morale to move a group of people
- How high morale is dynamic, and why it must be cultivated and maintained
- Understanding the connection between human nature and morale
- Cheerful generosity: the hallmarks of high morale
- 3 Foundations of Morale: Spiritual, Mental, Material
- Why the foundations are vital and how to get them in your company
- Famous examples of spiritual foundations
- Why transcendent aims are vital to high morale
- To ensure high morale make sure your objectives are obtainable
- The link between efficiency and high morale
- How leaders influence morale, for better or for worse.
- How good equipment and supplies impact morale in the field
- Working conditions and morale
- Why leadership unity leads to high morale
- Training and morale: How competency impacts competence.
- How small wins build morale and set the stage for future success
- Face to face: How leaders build morale through personal interaction
Next Steps:
- Realize that you are responsible for the morale of your organization
- Be clear on the spiritual foundations of your business
- Get on the same page with other leaders
- Visit your people and communicate with them
- Ask them if there are any issues that are not being addressed.
Takeaway. Go to my website www.ericanderton.com/morale and click the button, download a PDF, taken from the book of Bill Slim’s Definition of Morale. Distribute them to your team and schedule a meeting to discuss how to close “morale gaps” in your company.