I was just walking down a corridor and heard a question asked by one to another, “What’s in it for me?” Now, I did not follow the complete conversation, however, it definitely did trigger a thought. Most of the folks today do any work based on the kind of incentive that work is going to bring their way. It has today become a very direct equation – B input = B output (if not more… B+1 or even better 2B or B2) ie. If I give an effort B, I want a benefit atleast equivalent to B. However, looking at every work or project in that view might not be appropriate.
Motivation to do any work is the key to how a person does that particular work. And not every work will give you an equivalent output in just one form. I believe that, if we do a good job, over time, our work will give us returns in exponential value. Not returns in just one form… however in many more forms like sustainability, rewards, recognition, monetary, respect and the best… learning. 
Now, if we are dependent of an exchange scheme like… “What’s in it for me?” for every other thing in life… our motivation levels and learning will be very short-lived. Moreover, it sometimes leads to a sine wave of satisfaction and dissatisfaction. Instead I suggest we should change the question to “What does it mean to me?” This makes our life enriching and simpler as well.
Now, for example; Your organization has a tough bug to be fixed in 5 days. Your manager offers the work to you and checks with you if you would want to take it up. And you are aware, that you have the right skills to take it to closure.
In this case, if you ask – “What’s in it for me?” … your most obvious answer would be –
- Recognition
- Some reward in future
- A chance to demand a promotion
The same case, when the question is changed to “What does it mean to me?”…
- Sleepless nights for couple of days – Does my health permit
- A chance to step in and work for my organization’s vision
- An opportunity to display my skills
- A new learning experience
- Job satisfaction – Ability to crack tough bugs
I think the later question works very well in every matter of our life. And it not only facilitates a right decision, it also helps us be our best at every situation, without really thinking of the material benefits one gets out of it. Having said that, I am rest assured, the benefits we deserve will definitely come our way. Sometimes early, sometimes late… but it definitely comes…
