A study was done using two sets of college students--15 in each group. One group was given sharp tools--and sharpened or replenished whenever dulled. The other group was given dulled tools and told to use only what they had been given.

Before long the group with the sharp tools were singing, being productive, and enjoying their work. The group with the dulled tools were agitated, hostile and ready to quit. The group with the dull tools were given a raise--and worked like crazy for about 15 minutes before starting to complain again. This went on through the day.

At four in the afternoon the group with the dull tools walked off the job--BY THIS TIME THEY WERE MAKING $25 PER HOUR PER PERSON! The group with the sharp tools were still singing, having fun (AND STILL MAKING MINIMUM WAGE). As a leader, make sure your people have the tools they need for their job!