I owe Mr McGregor a vote of thanks. I have owed him that vote of thanks for the best part of 50 years.

McGregor was the gentleman who introduced the idea of “Theory X” and “Theory Y”.

Theory X is all about the recognition of extrinsic reward for work undertaken. It covers the dollars and cents and salary that people learn. Monetary rewards are an important part of motivation but they are not the end and be all of what drives people.

McGregor through Theory Y touched on and elaborated intrinsic rewards associated with work. Intrinsic rewards are what people feel in terms of “soul satisfaction“ about the work they do. Are they valued, appreciated, thanked and made to feel worthwhile beyond simply drawing money for the work that they do. Over the years McGregor’s theory (both X and Y) have been important drivers. I have enjoyed earning but I have also enjoyed and valued being appreciated. In turn , as a leader I tried very very hard to give back to people in terms of Theory Y. People who are happy to work helpers build positive atmosphere within organisations. They work and they gel together. Their collective energy (Synergy) m the years McGregor’s theory (both X and Y) have been important drivers. I have enjoyed earning but I have loved being appreciated. In turn, as a leader I tried very very hard to give back to people in terms of Theory Y. People who are happy to work helps build positive atmosphere within organisations. They work and they gel together. Their collective energy (synergy) helps organisations drive higher and further toward achieving goals. Intrinsic appreciation values everybody and keeps them on the same page.

So I do thank Mr McGregor for his theories. I tried very very hard to always be a leader who promoted Theory Y thinking within my schools.