When Motivation Meets Reality: The Tale of Manager Mike

This week, I want to share a story about someone we’ll call Manager Mike. Now, before you roll your eyes and think this is just another tale of corporate drama, let me assure you—this one is real and full of twists!

The Setup

Mike was managing a small team at a tech startup. Things were moving fast and everyone was hustling hard. But one fateful day, the company's finances took a nosedive. You know how it goes—one minute you’re enjoying suya with your friends, and the next, you’re dodging salary payments like they're bad traffic on Lagos Third Mainland Bridge!

The Meeting

With salaries delayed for two months, Mike called a meeting. He wanted to motivate his team, so he brought in a motivational speaker. But instead of inspiring tales of success, the speaker launched into a rant about how “hard work pays off.”

Cue the eye rolls! When your bank account is emptier than a Lagos bus at midnight, those words hit differently.

After the meeting, Mike had a heart-to-heart with his team. They were frustrated, and one brave soul even said, “Mr. Mike, we can’t eat ‘hard work’!”

The room went silent. Everyone was thinking, true talk, my brother!

The Twist

Here’s the twist: instead of sugar-coating the situation, Mike decided to be real. He opened up about the financial struggles of the company and asked for their ideas on how to navigate the tough times.

“If we can’t pay you, maybe we can find ways to keep morale high without breaking the bank!” he said.

The Big Question

What would you do if you were in Mike's position? Would you keep the team motivated despite the odds, or would you start looking for a new job?

We’ve all faced tough situations—whether it’s dodging potholes or dealing with office politics. Sometimes, it feels like we’re all trying to survive the hustle together.

But let’s be real: should Mike have even invited a motivational speaker when salaries are on hold? Is it just a distraction from the real issues?

Join the Conversation!

I want to hear your thoughts!

What would you do if you were Manager Mike? How can we support our teams in challenging times without losing our sanity?

Drop your comments below! Let’s get this conversation started. After all, every experience is a lesson—just like figuring out the best way to navigate Lagos traffic!

After all, every experience is a lesson learned in the hustle of our everyday lives!

Until next time,

HR Tales to Tell with Retta!!!

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