I’ve found that sometimes a small saying goes a long way to help someone get motivated. One of those sayings is:
“If it were easy we wouldn’t need YOU.”
I like to use it when someone is discouraged at some Herculean task or having a tough time dealing with customers or colleagues. It instantly injects meaning and self-worth into their stuggle — after all, everyone is proud to achieve something that few others can do. It also shows them that you appreciate the special value that they bring to your organization.
Often just that small phrase, said with feeling, is enough to give someone the energy and motivation they need to push through to their next big success.
Try it.