Want to Perform Better? Start by Being Watched

In the 1920s, a study was conducted at the Hawthorne Works factory to see if changing lighting conditions would improve worker productivity. The surprising result? It didn’t matter whether the lights were brighter or dimmer—productivity improved simply because the workers knew they were being observed. This is known as the Hawthorne Effect, which shows how performance improves when people believe they’re being watched or evaluated.

As men, we’re navigating intense pressures—growing careers, balancing relationships, and pursuing personal goals. But often, progress stalls. The Hawthorne Effect can unlock hidden potential by helping us leverage external attention and accountability for personal and professional growth.

The Power of Being Observed

The Hawthorne Effect reveals a profound truth: We perform better when we know someone is watching. Whether it’s in the gym, the office, or in your personal relationships, knowing that others are paying attention changes how we behave. We, often solitary in their pursuit of goals, miss out on this hidden power. You don’t need to wait for external validation to harness it. Instead, you can consciously invite “observation” into your life to stay motivated, accountable, and focused.

Take Jeff, a 40-year-old sales manager who wanted to start a new fitness routine. For years, he failed to stick with it. Then, he signed up for a small-group personal training class where the coach kept a close eye on every participant. Suddenly, Jeff was more committed than ever. It wasn’t the gym equipment or the workout plan—it was the psychological pressure of being watched that transformed his fitness routine.

How to Apply the Hawthorne Effect in Life and Business

1. Create Accountability Systems
   At its core, the Hawthorne Effect is about accountability. The feeling that someone is watching you makes you more likely to follow through. By creating systems of accountability in your personal life and career, you can improve your performance.

   • Example in Life: Share your personal goals with a close friend or mentor. Whether it’s writing a book, losing weight, or developing a new skill, knowing someone is checking in on your progress creates an external force to help you stay focused.

   • Example in Business: Use public commitments to drive productivity. Announce a deadline or new project to your team or colleagues, and give them permission to follow up. When you make your goals visible to others, you’re more likely to act on them.

2. Embrace External Feedback
   Feedback loops are a key aspect of the Hawthorne Effect. When you know feedback is coming, you’re more attentive and committed to improving. Seek out feedback not only in your work but also in your personal life.

   • Example in Life: If you want to improve a relationship or personal habit, ask those closest to you for honest feedback. Their observations and evaluations can drive you to adjust your behavior for the better, simply because you know someone is watching.

   • Example in Business: Ask for feedback after major milestones or projects, both from supervisors and peers. Knowing that your work will be reviewed increases your diligence and focus throughout the process.

3. Use Digital Accountability Tools
   In the modern age, you don’t need a physical observer. Tools like habit trackers, fitness apps, and productivity software can serve as your external “observer” to keep you accountable.

   • Example in Life: Use apps like Done (my personal favorite) or get accountability coaching to track your habits. These tools send reminders, record your progress, and provide virtual rewards, mimicking the psychological boost of being observed.

   • Example in Business: Tools like Trello (this is what I use) or Asana can keep you and your team aligned and accountable. Knowing that your tasks and progress are visible to others encourages follow-through.

For example, I currently have a health coach helping me cut weight. I pay him quite a bit in order to motivate me, and he tracks ever meal I eat through MyFitnessPal, my daily steps through the StepsApp, and my daily, weekly, and monthly progress through PT Distinction.

Leverage Observation to Live Fully

Life is not a solitary pursuit. As John Donne once said, “No man is an island.” We thrive under observation, and the Hawthorne Effect shows us that even the illusion of oversight can drive performance. Instead of struggling alone, use the power of accountability, feedback, and public commitments to fuel your growth.

The next time you feel stuck or unmotivated, don’t retreat into solitude. Find ways to be observed. Share your goals, invite feedback, and track your progress publicly. You’ll be amazed at how much faster you’ll move toward success when someone’s watching.

Cheers,

Matt

P.S. If this was helpful for you, it might be helpful for someone else. Feel free to share it. My goal is to help as many people as possible stop settling and start living. 🤙