Minami Family HR System: Edition 5 – Effort Matters

The kids spent some time in New Zealand, and this became a fresh test for our “Family HR System.”

They spent most of their time playing in the local school because of the NZ school system, but what stood out was the effort they showed in adjusting to a new culture. They tried to speak English with people around them, attempted new things and stepped outside their comfort zones.

Were there visible improvements in skill or behavior? Not immediately. But the effort was clear, and in our system, effort counts.

So this month, during our review, we decided to promote them to the next grade. Not because they reached a milestone, but because they met one of the key expectations of Grade 1: Do what you are supposed to do under the guidance of your parents and siblings.

This experience reminded me:
✅ Sometimes, progress isn’t immediate or visible
✅ But effort is the foundation for future growth
✅ And recognition, even without results, can strengthen intrinsic motivation

In both families and companies, we often reward outcomes. But recognizing effort, especially in early stages of change, builds long-term engagement.

To those designing people systems: How do you account for effort in your evaluations? Is it a “nice-to-have” or a true marker of growth?

It was so heartwarming to see my three kids in a new environment, stepping out of their comfort zone and truly making the most of the experience.

#MinamiFamilyHR #PeopleSystems #FamilyHR #PersonalGrowth