Why do some fail while others succeed? Why are some rich while others remain poor? Typically the answer is motivation or more-often a “lack” of motivation.
Motivation is generally defined as the force that compels us to act. It drives us to work hard and pushes us to succeed. Motivation influences our behavior and our ability to accomplish goals.
There are many different forms of motivation. Each one influences behavior in its own unique way. No single type of motivation works for everyone. People’s personalities vary and so accordingly does the type of motivation, that is most effective at inspiring their behavior and action.
What is the true definition of Motivation? Let’s take a look. Merriam-Webster defines Motivation as:
1. the act or process of giving someone a reason for doing something.
2. the condition of being eager to act or work.
3. a force or influence that causes someone to do something.
As mentioned, people are “compelled” to do what they do, whether they are motivated by good or bad influences, they are “motivated” all the same.
Motivation is typically broken down into (7) types or “areas” of motivation:
Incentive:
Incentive is a form of motivation that involves rewards, both monetary and non-monetary. Many people are driven by the knowledge that they will be rewarded in some manner for achieving a certain target or goal. Bonuses and promotions are good examples of this type of incentive-based motivation.
Fear:
Fear motivation involves consequences. This type of motivation is often one that is utilized when incentive motivation fails. Religious denominations throughout history have used the “wrath of God”, or at the very least, ex-communication from the group as a fear driven motivator to keep their followers motivated to stay compliant and obedient.
Punishment or negative consequences:
This type of motivation is a variant of Fear motivation. This type of motivation is commonly used to motivate students in the education system and also frequently in a professional setting to motivate employees. If we break the rules or fail to achieve the set goal, we are penalized in some way.
Achievement:
We are driven to achieve goals and tackle new challenges. We desire to improve skills and prove our competency both to others and to ourselves. Generally, this feeling of accomplishment and achievement is intrinsic in nature, however, in certain circumstances achievement-based motivation may involve external recognition. We often have a desire or need to receive positive feedback from both our peers and our superiors. This may include anything from an award to a simple pat on the back for a job well done.
Growth:
The need for self-improvement is truly an internal motivation. A burning desire to increase our knowledge of ourselves and of the outside world can be a very strong form of motivation. We seek to learn and grow as individuals.
“The purpose of learning is growth, and our minds, unlike our bodies, can continue growing as long as we live.” – Mortimer Adler
Power:
We want to have choices and control over our own lives. We strive for the ability to choose the paths we take and the way our lives will unfold in the future. Unfortunately, there are often those who aspire to control others. The desire for control is stronger in some people than others, and in some cases, the craving for power motivates people to harmful, immoral, or illegal behavior. In other situations, the longing for power is merely a desire to affect the behavior of others. We are each capable of orchestrating our own destinies, NEVER try to impose your thoughts, feelings, desires or ambitions on another.
Social:
Many people are motivated by social factors. This may be a desire to belong, and to be accepted by a specific peer group or a desire to relate to the people in our sphere or in the larger world. We have a need for acceptance and affiliation. A genuine and passionate desire to contribute and to make a difference in the lives of others can be another form of social motivation.
The real importance of understanding the different types of motivation is in our ability to determine which form of motivation is the most effective for inspiring the desired behavior in either others or ourselves. None of these types of motivation are inherently good or bad, the positive or negative outcome is truly determined by the way they are applied.
We truly hope this short article has been of significance, and that it will help you determine your motivational style, as well as, bring out and enhance the best qualities of your personality and spirit.
STAY MOTIVATED!
Additional motivational resources to aid you in your journey are available at globalmotivators.com for you convenience, as well as links to other great motivational materials.