Motivation- the compelling factor

The driving force behind human action, motivation is that which initiates, guides, and maintains goal-oriented behaviour. For instance, when we wish to lose extra weight, or aspire for a promotion at work, it is motivation that takes us closer to our goals. It comprises the biological, emotional, social, and cognitive forces that activate human behavior.

Classifying motivation

Motivation can be either intrinsic or extrinsic. Extrinsic motivation is derived from external sources, such as trophies, money, social recognition, or praise.Intrinsic motivation is internal and arises from within the individual, such as the gratification derived from solving a complicated crossword puzzle. There could also be a motivation derived from the family. This can happen when one is not driven by intrinsic motivation, but still is pushed towards the action because it might be a means to financially support the family. However it is effective self-motivation that distinguishes high-achieving professionals from others. And this is person specific. What works for one might not be effective for another.

 

Design Goals, Not Chores

When salespeople have targets, they close more deals. When individuals make daily exercise commitments, they’re more likely to increase their fitness levels. Abstract objectives, such as “doing your best”are usually much less effective than concrete action plans, such as walking 10,000 steps a day. Goals should thus be specific. Further, they should trigger intrinsic, rather than extrinsic, motivation.Intrinsic motives have been known to predict achievement and success better than extrinsic ones.

Sustain Progress

When people are working toward a goal, they typically have a burst of motivation early and then slump in the middle, where they are most likely to stall out. For instance, in one study observant Jews were more likely to light a menorah on the first and last nights of Hanukkah than on the other six nights, even though the religious tradition is to light candles for eight successive days. This tendency can be effectively handled by breaking your goal into smaller subgoal, such having weekly instead of quarterly sales targets. There is a lesser chance to succumb.

 

Harness the Influence of Others

As humans, we are always influenced and inspired by our peers. However this takes a complex turn with motivation. When we witness a colleague speeding through a task that leaves us frustrated, we respond in one of two ways: either we’re inspired and try to copy that behavior, or we lose motivation and leave the task to our peer. This can be explained as humans have thrived as a species through individual specialization and by making the most of their comparative advantages. As a strategy, it is never advisable to passively watch ambitious, efficient, successful coworkers. Instead, talk to them and try gaining their cooperation. For instance, when a friend endorses a product, people are more likely to buy it; not if the friend simply buys it. Taking the other into confidence and engaging in a collaborative effort results in powerful motivation with increased drive and achievement.

 

About the author

The article has been contributed by Souroshi Gupta from Auxilium Convent School, Bandel: