Human entrainment is very common in our society. We followed music and fashion trends, pretty much without thinking. Certain elements of life are basic and everyone must follow. We must breathe oxygen, drink water, and eat. We basically all have the same senses, eyes ears fingers and toes, and we pretty much feel the same things as everyone else.

Playing follow the leader has benefits and risks. Having routines provides a certain safety and sense of security, but on the other hand, being aware of our aspects of individuality helps keep us sane.

The workplace cubicle is also symbolic of life. Here, routines flourish and repetitive tasks are the name of the game. Management, will quite often only recognize the efficiency of routines and efficient work procedures. Good leadership, however, allows for the personality of our unique individualities to surface, at least on occasion.

Its very possible that increased productivity can come about from happier employees. Actually, this has been proven in several studies. In fact, many large corporations hire specialists to find ways to lift the mood and atmosphere of the workplace.

Finding such a specialist with a proven track record may be difficult. My recommendation might be, to ask schoolteachers, as well as music teachers. I suppose I have a bias there because I am a music teacher myself.

Having taught music in public schools, private schools and in individual, private lessons for nearly 20 years (since 1989). I have found it very important to maintain high levels of motivation among my students, or clients.

There are many factors my students find motivating; however there may be some common threads to which factors work continuously. I would say that recognition of effort is a primary motivator. It doesnt have to be a big deal, but it has to be there. Something. Even a mention, an acknowledgment of some sort. In fact, it seems more effective when it is not made into a big deal, but an important factor in the student teacher relationship. Also in my experience in many corporate settings, the relationship from the employee to the superior manager, I find extremely similar.

The moment that the employee gains a sense that management truly doesnt care about them as an individual, then the bonds of loyalty begin to fray. This loss of respect and trust is a loss to the company. It may be difficult to account for this in the loss prevention department, however this loss of trust is a loss of true value and the energy and efforts of a trained employee. This deficit, which has been generated by supervisory management being blind in recognizing the efforts of the subordinate, will result in deterioration in the strength of the company. To compound this problem, the very next levels of management quite often overlook this problem.

Being aware of this situation, and offering simple recognition to the efforts of those who show up and work towards the common goals of the companys overall productivity, while still being regarded as a unique individual, will benefit the organization greatly. Routines may still be the functional structure of completing immediate goals, but the acknowledgement and compassion make it bearable and worthwhile.

Nels Jenstad has worked many years in the corporate world, and also has been teaching music in public and private schools and in 1 to 1 lessons, professionally since 1989. Expertise in Music Theory, Composition, as well as technique in Guitar and Piano. Many years in performance and studio recording, Jenstad has been a member of American Society of Composers Authors and Publishers since 1994. Currently teaching in Irvine, California at Jim’s Music Center which is in the top 30 music retailers in the USA.