It’s interesting how when we have to select a bunch of people to be on our projects we immediately latch onto the skilled ones whether or not they are motivated and the average guys are first ones to go even if they have a vested interested in our success (as they succeed along with us).
Next time when you have to make a choice of keeping someone on the team, pick the one who will do anything to make you successful and you will be surprised what that person will do to gather all the skills needed. He will do everything and a lot more to make him/her successful and in the process you will see success beyond your wildest imagination. You just need to provide them some mentorship – thats all.
Alternatively, keep finding ways to motivate people but don’t forget The Paradox of Rising Expectations.