We’ve been sold a lopsided story about leadership: hard skills are non-negotiable, while soft skills are “nice to have.” But here’s the truth we don’t say out loud—soft skills aren’t soft. They’re the root system. We’ve been worshipping the branches—what’s visible, productive, fast. But without roots—presence, emotional clarity, humility—none of it holds.

In Japan, this isn’t a buzzword—it’s embedded in the spirit of Shokunin Kishitsu: the quiet discipline of showing up fully, with intention and pride. Skills aren’t separated from the soul. Leadership isn’t about being rigid—it’s about being supple.

I'm curious—what truly fuels our drive to stay engaged and thrive at work? Lately, I've been pondering what kinds of incentives go beyond financial rewards to spark a deeper connection to our roles. From psychological safety to purpose-driven work, it’s clear that motivation isn't one-size-fits-all. In this piece, I unpack the science and psychology behind effective incentives and share insights on how leaders can foster environments where employees feel valued and empowered. Let's dive into what really keeps us motivated.