Quote Originally Posted by AndrewBlack
The two are not mutually exclusive, perhaps both would be the best strategy? Are you making things too complicated or perhaps setting things that are too dificult? Is there also unaceptable disobedience?
Andrew,
You have brought of some very good issues that I need to consider. Although the increase in tasks were at my slave's request it may be that it is more than he can handle. The 'misunderstandings' did not start to occur until recently and frankly took me by surprise. He seemed quite excited about the increase and higher level of his tasks but I must agree that they may be too difficult or complicated. All disobedience is unacceptable unless there was a true misunderstanding. My problem with these misunderstandings is that he has had plenty of time to get clarification or to confirm his interpretation of his tasks ahead of time. Your thoughts on my situation have been a great help. I truly appreciate your input. Thank You Jade

Quote Originally Posted by Wontworry
Now that's a tricky one because a true submissive must surely be rewarded by further pain and/or humiliation, which can get so confusing that perhaps it's better not to go too far down that road. In my experience a reward is exactly the same as in the vanilla world. Something the person really wants but is unable or not allowed to have except when they deserve it.

For instance, while I was away this week lucy had some severe hassles (not Ds related) to get through. On my return I looked over what she had done and was so impressed and proud at how she had handled everything that I gave her what is currently (possibly always will be) her ultimate reward. She was allowed to wear her collar while she carried out today's tasks. Now on its own that may not seem much, but it is something very special to her/us and therefore I only allow it on extremely rare occasions when I am not physically with her.

I think this is how it should be with any submissive. Rewards should be few and far between, should be deserved rather than given for minor successes (for which only encouragement and praise should be given), and should be something that is special to that submissive.
WW,
Thank you for your example. While pain is not my slave's passion he does crave some humiliation but his greatest pleasure comes in performing the tasks I assign. Or so that has been the case so far. Your advice on limiting rewards is extremely helpful. Although I truly believe he deserved the one he has received. I will not be so generous in the future. Your thoughts as well as Andrew's have given me the direction in which to proceed. Thank You Jade