From Smart to Wise: Acting and Leading with Wisdom

Conclusion

Motivation is the intent and the driving force behind our actions. It can be intrinsic, such as the pleasure we find in certain activities, or extrinsic, that is, goal directed. Blue zone leaders, who excel at execution and operations, tend to be motivated by getting things done on time and under budget with high quality; they excel at increasing short-term productivity and profitability within an organization. Red zone leaders, who excel at seeing and seizing new opportunities that will bring top-line growth, fame, and success to their organizations and themselves, tend to be driven primarily by self-interest.

Unlike smart leaders, who tend to be self-centered, wise leaders are other-centered. They are mainly motivated by enlightened ...