For years, managers have been stuck in a false dilemma: care for your team or achieve results. Many leaders think it’s a trade-off— you’re either the “soft” manager, prioritizing emotional support at the expense of outcomes, or the “tough” manager, pushing for results with control and pressure, sacrificing genuine care in the process.

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Here’s the truth: you don’t have to choose.

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There’s a proven approach that allows you to support your people while achieving high performance. It’s called Self-Determination Theory (SDT), and it combines the power of caring relationships with strong, goal-oriented leadership.

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The key? Meeting your employees’ core psychological needs—Autonomy, Belonging, and Competence (ABC). Supporting these needs doesn’t mean giving up control or handing out participation trophies. It’s about clear communication, energetic leadership, and fostering an environment of respect and collaboration.

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When done right, your team doesn’t feel pressured to meet goals—they internalize them. They’re motivated from within, energized to give their best, and willing to go the extra mile. The result? Better performance, greater persistence, and a shared sense of mission.

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This approach creates a win-win situation: employees thrive, and the organization achieves its goals.

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Stop choosing between care and outcomes. With the right approach, you can have both—and your team will thank you for it.

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Our online nurse manager training shows you how to apply ABC in every interaction, helping you lead with care and purpose.

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Ready to see the results for yourself? Get your free trial now!

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