Our understanding of motivation and management generally has not moved on since the end of the 19th Century / beginning of the 20th Century. “Its central ethic remains control; it’s chief tools remain extrinsic motivators.” (D. Pink) The carrot or stick as motivators are still prevalent in many organisations. In his book, “Drive, The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us” Daniel Pink states, “that most businesses haven’t caught up to this new understanding of what motivates us.”

Motivation is not something you get from another person or from external circumstances. It is intrinsic, it is a feeling, an emotion. Any motivation that we experience comes 100% from within ... directly from our thoughts and feelings – from the Inside-Out. We cannot therefore be motivated by someone or something else, full stop.

Good leaders can, however, help to create an environment in which people choose to self-motivate. The leaders’ role therefore is “to set inspiring examples born from clarity and understanding.” (G Kramer*) Genuine leadership is not about driving, pushing, or cheering people on or suggesting practices or tools to motivate them. “It’s about showing others that motivation rests within them” (G Kramer*)

*Garret Kramer: The Path of No Resistance

Neil Johnson - Founder and owner of Bravo Whiskey Golf (BWG)

“I originally met Charlie through a wonderful friend of mine, the late Bernie Petrie. Charlie was delivering a talk on Chi Gung at Bernie’s studio in North Berwick, but he broadened it out to detail elements of his fascinating life. After the session I approached him to arrange to meet privately. At our first meeting Charlie gave me some reading material as ‘homework,’ but interestingly, in between our meetings, Charlie attended a Three Principles of Mind, Consciousness and Thought seminar in the south of England which had become his main focus for individual development.

Charlie then explained the reason for his interest in the Three Principles. The penny did not drop immediately for me, but my interest was sparked and I became curious about the human experience being created mainly from our thoughts. Over time and with Charlie’s coaching I discovered the answers to my questions and, as a result, I believe I have become a more content, resilient and understanding person, both professionally and in my personal life.

Charlie also introduced me to Chi Gung which I have continued to practice over the years, working 45 minutes a day to keep my mind and body sharp. I have benefitted greatly from my work with Charlie and would highly recommend anyone who is interested in spending time with him.”

So, you think you’re a Motivator... Think again!