Hebrews 13:17-18; 2 Timothy 2:15

It has been said the difference between motivation and manipulation is the quenching of thirst. If so, the key for leaders is to look for thirsty people and identify their thirst. Effective motivators ask themselves, What kind of water do I have to satisfy that kind of thirst?

How can we bring out the best in people?

1. Establish a friendly atmosphere. When we've genuinely motivated someone, we can look that person in the eye and know we have an honest, friendly relationship between us.
2. Enjoy people's uniqueness. Being friends is beneficial, but having the same tastes is not necessary. We need to share in our workers' excitement and appreciate their work for the beauty in it. Workers will sense our appreciation and be motivated by it.
3. Know a person's capabilities. We should objectively evaluate a volunteer's skills, potential capacities, level of commitment, ability to be motivated, discipline, and intensity. This is necessary if we are to nurture volunteers in their natural abilities without pushing them beyond their real limitations.