Understanding What Drives People

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When we look at people , it seems like they are full of strength , but behind those smiles , laugh , are some weakness that people don't want you to see.

This weakness could be a need, or a pressure point that can influence their decisions.

It might be ambition, fear, pride, money, recognition, or even personal relationships.

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If you can truly understand what motivates people , you can become not just a successful leader , but a successful strategist.

Let us take a look at the world of diplomacy , nations do have conflicts and in some cases they look for an amicable way to settle , the need of each nation might differ from that of other nation ,some might be interested in economic grow, while another values security or global reputation.

Highly skilled diplomats leverage on this , they identify what each party is interested in the generate or craft an agreement that will suit both parties.

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We can also see this in the business world ,when companies are about to negotiate a deal or partner with other companies , they look for a common landing point where each party will benefit, the need of each party is identified then used to land a common agreement.

A supplier might want long-term stability rather than the highest immediate profit. A retailer might prioritize exclusivity to beat competitors. Understanding that this strategy allows you to offer something that feels irresistible to them, while also benefiting yourself.

Let us not also forget about legal settlements, the same idea appears. Lawyers study the opposing party to discover the key pressure point. Maybe the other side fears public exposure more than financial loss. Offering confidentiality in exchange for favorable terms can unlock a faster, more profitable resolution.

This principle is not about cruelty. It is about awareness. People are rarely moved by what you want; they are moved by what matters most to them. If you approach every negotiation, conflict, or collaboration with that mindset, your chances of success rise sharply.

In everyday leadership, this understanding builds influence without force. A manager who knows that one employee values public recognition, another prefers flexible hours, and a third seeks career growth can motivate the whole team more effectively than one who treats everyone the same.

Power often comes from insight.

​Having in mind what drives others , you have an advantage as you can easily persuade , and resolve resolutions.

Instead of pushing against resistance blindly, you apply pressure where it matters most, achieving results with less effort.

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