I used to think that's what they wanted. After all, we're creatures of comfort right?

I didn't want to give them too much. I didn't want to overwhelm them. I didn't want them to be stressed or frustrated.

Zzzzzzz.

Yep. That's right - they were so comfortable they were bored. Unexcited. And not terribly motivated. Why would they be?

Employees want to be challenged. They want to stretch, to learn, to accomplish, to achieve.

That doesn't mean they want to be overworked.

And don't demand. Challenge.

Set the bar a bit higher than they think is possible. Give the tools, give the guidance, give the encouragement and answer the questions. And see what's possible.

Lastly, don't forget to appreciate the mistakes that come with the effort to step outside of the comfort zone.