Motivation is a mysterious entity – sometimes it’s there, and sometimes it isn’t. Most people have the motivation to get up out of bed every morning, live life and carry out normal activities.
But what about motivation to start and run a business, become an impactful leader or champion a worthy cause that can improve life for all mankind?
Here are a few of my theories behind the driving force we call “motivation”:
1. Instinct
If you didn’t know by now, our DNA isn’t just for telling us who are relatives are or for linking us to crime scenes – it also tells us if we have a natural inclination to be self-motivated and get things done without anyone needing to remind or nag us or motivate us!
2. Incentive
The old saying “eye on the prize” couldn’t be any more relevant here! When we’re working for a handsome reward, that motivation seems to come very quickly. For example, a salesperson may be more motivated to sell more if they knew there would be more commissions or even a promotion. The greater the reward, the more motivated you will be to pursue the path to it.
3. Drive
I’ve tested this theory myself personally – some people have that natural drive and self-motivation comes easily for them. They have an internal hunger to accomplish things and smash goals, which is normally fueled by external forces, most often the need to prove their worth and capabilities. They prove time after time that nothing and no one is going to get in the way of their success.
4. Arousal
Take your mind out of the gutter for a second – if you’re presented with the opportunity to have or do something super exciting, motivation will not be a problem. When you’re feeling low on the spectrum, you might be motivated to add some excitement to your life with something like an action movie, a jog, or even an argument. When you need to balance out your day with relaxation, you could be more motivated to read a book or drink soothing tea. Our feelings run deep and differ according to what arouses us.
5. Humanism
We are not robots, but rather complex creatures with layers of thought, desire, and feeling. Humanistic drives relate to a hierarchy of needs proposed by psychologist John Maslow. While things like food, water, and shelter are basic needs that must be met, people also have more intangible needs to fulfill like self actualization, creative expression, and loving relationships.
6. Expectancy
This theory circulates around the idea that people can build their own future just by what they think about themselves and the world around them, and be motivated to act accordingly. For example, a person who feels good about themselves and confident about what they can achieve will be more motivated to pursue their goals, while someone who feels down and out will be less motivated.
Need some motivation in your life right now? Let’s have a chat! You can send me a message by clicking here.
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Very truly yours,
Natalia