The Progress Principle: Using Small Wins to Ignite Joy, Engagement, and Creativity at Work

Teresa M. Amabile; Steve J. Kramer

Book | 2011

The Progress Principle: Using Small Wins to Ignite Joy, Engagement, and Creativity at Work

by Teresa M. Amabile and Steve J. Kramer

Abstract

The most effective managers have the ability to build a cadre of employees who have great inner work lives-consistently positive emotions; strong motivation; and favorable perceptions of the organization, their work, and their colleagues. The worst managers undermine inner work life, often unwittingly. As Teresa Amabile and Steven Kramer explain in 'The Progress Principle,' seemingly mundane workday events can make or break employees' inner work lives. But it's forward momentum in meaningful work-progress that creates the best inner work lives. Through rigorous analysis of nearly 12,000 diary entries provided by 238 employees in seven companies, the authors explain how managers can foster progress and enhance inner work life every day. The book shows how to remove obstacles to progress, including meaningless tasks and toxic relationships. It also explains how to activate two forces that enable progress: 1) catalysts-events that directly facilitate project work, such as clear goals and autonomy and 2) nourishers-interpersonal events that uplift workers, including encouragement and demonstrations of respect and collegiality. Brimming with honest examples from the companies studied, 'The Progress Principle' equips aspiring and seasoned leaders alike with the insights they need to maximize their people's performance.

Keywords: Creativity; Interpersonal Communication; Employee Relationship Management; Leadership; Performance Effectiveness; Emotions; Motivation and Incentives; Groups and Teams; Collaborative Innovation and Invention; Innovation Leadership; Working Conditions; Management Practices and Processes; Management Skills; Mission and Purpose; Organizational Culture; Performance Productivity; Attitudes; Behavior; Happiness; Perception; Trust; Time Management; Resource Allocation; Business or Company Management; Goals and Objectives; Managerial Roles;

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Amabile, Teresa M., and Steve J. Kramer. The Progress Principle: Using Small Wins to Ignite Joy, Engagement, and Creativity at Work. Harvard Business Review Press, 2011.

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The Progress Principle: Using Small Wins to Ignite Joy, Engagement, and Creativity at Work

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