What ski-lift operator Fränz told me on a cold winter day resurfaced many years later in one of the most influential theories of modern psychology.
Fränz looked just like his colleagues: same clothes, a weather-worn, furrowed face, a thick beard. He performed the same repetitive task, handing out lift bars to an endless line of skiers. But he stood out. Unlike the others, he wasn’t grumpy. He radiated good spirits. When I ran into him again, I asked what gave him such drive in such a monotonous job.
What lingered from that encounter surfaced again years later in the Self-Determination Theory developed by Edward L. Deci and Richard M. Ryan. Their work shows that intrinsic motivation is more sustainable, healthier, and effective than extrinsic motivation, such as money, praise, or pressure. Building on this, Dr. Peter Senn added a valuable dimension to the Self-Determination Theory.
Relatedness: Feeling appreciated and part of something
Fränz: “I’m Fränz. I herd cattle in summer, high up on the alps. It’s rough and you go days without a voice. Here, I drink coffee with my colleagues in the morning, and there’s usually a beer after work. I’m part of something.”
Competence: Using your skills and strengths
Fränz: “I’m also a mechanic. I like fixing things, keeping the lift running. Tighten a bolt here, solving small disruptions. I genuinely enjoy it.”
Autonomy: Being in charge of your decisions
Fränz: “As long as the system runs, no one interferes. I ensure the lift opens on time and check the piste at day’s end. The rest is my domain. My responsibility, my discretion.”
Impact: Knowing you make a difference
Fränz: “And I’ll let you in on a secret: I hand each guest the bar a little differently. Gently for an older lady, with a bit more flair for two sporty lads. I always offer a joke, a quip, or at least a warm word. I want everyone to start their ride with a smile. Over the years, guests have returned, even from abroad, bringing delicacies from home. What more could one wish for?”
A seemingly monotonous job, yet deeply meaningful. Let that sink in. In the next post, I’ll take this further with a few thought-provoking questions.
By the way, you’ll find the full story of ski-lift man Fränz HERE
Warm regards,
Ralph Hubacher
