Is your leadership approach running on empty? Meet Takashi, a veteran sales manager whose motivation tactics have hit a wall. This article examines the tension between Agency Theory (which assumes employees need constant oversight) and Self-Determination Theory (which suggests people are naturally motivated under the right conditions). Through Takashi's journey, we'll explore how traditional control-based management often backfires, while offering practical, actionable steps for leaders ready to shift gears. Discover how Japanese companies are already reimagining motivation and learn specific techniques to transform your team from reluctant participants to engaged drivers of success.