What is the most common mistake many team leaders make in motivating their teams?

There are two common mistakes that many leaders make. 1st mistake is that they believe their self-worth and self-esteem depend on their team, their team performance, and the success or failure of the company. Hence, they start praising and rewarding only when they see that the team is performing well. This is a big mistake. As a leader, your job is constantly thinking of how you can motivate your team and make your team more productive. 2nd mistake is that they give out rewards and praise only when they see that their team is successful. The best thing a leader can do to motivate their team is to give praise and rewards when their team is trying to achieve a goal. A good leader will see the best in their team and facilitate achievement.

Mis-alignment between expectations of the team and the actual management style, this could be team values that are in print but forgotten in practice. Continuity (unless a cultural pivot is indicated) and expectations that motivators are the same for everybody.