In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving professional landscape, setting high expectations is more than a management strategy—it’s a cornerstone of unlocking hidden potential and driving motivation. When we challenge ourselves and our team members with ambitious goals, we ignite a powerful force that propels us toward excellence. Understanding the psychological underpinnings of this phenomenon, such as the Gollum effect and the Underdog effect, can enhance our approach to leadership and personal development. As Adam Grant discusses in his book Hidden Potential, high expectations are not just about dreaming big but about creating a culture of belief and resilience.

The Gollum Effect: The Downside of Low Expectations

The Gollum effect, much like the tragic character in J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, refers to the detrimental impact of low expectations on performance. When leaders communicate doubt or set minimal goals, they inadvertently limit their team’s potential. People tend to internalize these low expectations, decreasing effort and motivation. This phenomenon creates a self-fulfilling prophecy where individuals perform poorly because they believe they are incapable of more.

Imagine a team member consistently given easy tasks because their manager assumes they can’t handle more complex projects. Over time, these individuals may doubt their abilities, becoming disengaged and less motivated. The Gollum effect illustrates the importance of high expectations to foster a sense of capability and drive within our teams.

The Underdog Effect: Fueling Motivation Through Criticism and Challenge

The Underdog effect demonstrates the motivational power of high expectations, particularly when we face criticism or are underestimated by those who lack authority or mastery over what we aim to achieve. In these situations, skepticism from less knowledgeable sources can ignite a deep well of resilience and determination. The belief that we have something to prove can be a potent motivator, driving us to exceed our limits and achieve remarkable success.

However, when experts or masters of our tasks, like our leaders, managers and teammates, underestimate us, we risk falling victim to the Gollum effect. Doubts expressed by those with credible authority can lead us to internalize their low expectations, diminishing our confidence and motivation. The key difference lies in the source of the skepticism: criticism from non-experts often strengthens our resolve, while doubt from those we respect can undermine our self-belief.

In Hidden Potential, Adam Grant explores how embracing the Underdog effect can transform our approach to personal and professional growth. He shares stories of individuals who, despite facing adversity and low initial expectations, rose to greatness because they were driven by the desire to defy the odds. By setting high expectations and viewing challenges as opportunities rather than obstacles, we can cultivate an underdog mentality that fuels perseverance and innovation.

‘In a world obsessed with innate talent, we assume the people with the most promise are the ones who stand out right away. But high achievers vary dramatically in their initial aptitudes. If we judge people only by what they can do on day one, their potential remains hidden.’ ~Adam Grant

High Expectations: A Catalyst for Motivation

Setting high expectations has a profound impact on motivation. When we aim high, we create a vision of success that inspires action and commitment. High expectations communicate belief in our abilities and potential, fostering a growth mindset that thrives on continuous improvement and learning.

For leaders, this means crafting ambitious but achievable goals that push team members out of their comfort zones. It involves providing the necessary support and resources to help them succeed while maintaining a culture of accountability and encouragement. By setting high expectations, we send a powerful message: “I believe in you, and I know you can achieve great things.”

Practical Strategies for Setting High Expectations

1. Communicate Clear and Ambitious Goals: Articulate your vision and set specific, measurable, and challenging objectives. Ensure that your team understands the bigger picture and how their contributions align with overarching goals.
2. Foster a Growth Mindset: Encourage continuous learning and resilience. Emphasize that setbacks are opportunities for growth and that effort and perseverance are key to success.
3. Provide Support and Resources: Equip your team with the tools and knowledge they need to meet high expectations. Offer regular feedback, mentorship, and opportunities for skill development.
4. Celebrate Achievements: Recognize and celebrate both small wins and major milestones. Acknowledging progress reinforces the value of high expectations and motivates continued effort.
5. Lead by Example: Model the behavior and attitude you expect from your team. Demonstrate commitment, resilience, and a willingness to take on challenges.

Setting high expectations is not about imposing unrealistic demands; it’s about inspiring ourselves and our teams to reach for greatness

Understanding the dynamics of the Underdog effect and the Gollum effect helps us navigate criticism and doubt effectively. By recognizing the sources of these influences, we can harness the motivational power of being underestimated by those less knowledgeable while safeguarding against the detrimental impact of doubt from credible authorities. This balanced approach enables us to leverage high expectations to drive motivation and unlock hidden potential.