Motivation

Motivation

What does motivation mean?

What defines motivation and how does it affect human behavior? This term comes from the word ‘motive’. Motivation has been loosely defined in many ways. It is the inner power that pushes you toward taking action and toward achievement. The strong desire to do and accomplish something that important to you. It is the zest, driving force, energy, and the fire burning inside you that keeps you going toward a certain goal. The power that makes you wake up each morning with energy, ready to start your day and work to accomplish your goals. In short motivation means enthusiasm, eagerness, passion and interest coupled with the ambition and the desire to do and accomplish things.

Motivation is powered by desire and ambition, and therefore, if they are absent, motivation is absent too. Sometimes, motivation is triggered by external factors, such as a book about successful people, a movie, a certain event or pep talk. These factors awaken the desire to take action, follow a dream, or just carry a certain task. These factors or triggers can be strong and motivating, and push you forward, until you accomplish what you set out to do. Sometimes, the trigger might wear off after a while, and you need another dose of incentive factors.

Sometimes, you might have the desire to get something done or achieve a certain goal, but if the desire and ambition are not strong enough, you will lack the push, the initiative, and the willingness to take the necessary action. In these cases, there is a lack of motivation and inner drive, and you need, in some way or another, awaken them.

When there is motivation, there is initiative and direction, courage, energy, and the persistence to follow your goals. A motivated person takes action and does whatever is needed to achieve his or her goals. Motivation gets stronger, when you have a vision, a clear mental image of what you want to achieve, and also a strong desire to manifest it. In such a situation, motivation awakens inner strength and power, and pushes you forward, toward making your vision a reality.

Motivation is available, whenever there is a clear vision, precise understanding of what you want to do, a strong desire, and faith in your abilities.

When there is lack of motivation and incentive, you either get no results, or only mediocre ones, whereas, when there is motivation, you attain greater and better results and achievements. Lack of motivation means lack of enthusiasm, zest, incentive and ambition, whereas the possession of motivation is a sign of strong desire, energy and enthusiasm, and the willingness to do whatever it takes to achieve what one sets out to do.

Research shows that there are two types of motivation.

1. Intrinsic motivation

It is the act of doing something without any obvious external rewards. You do it because it is enjoyable, you like doing it, and because it is interesting. You do something, without an outside incentive or pressure, such as a reward or deadline.

2. Extrinsic motivation

It is behavior driven by external rewards. The rewards can be tangible, such as money or a present, or intangible, such as praise, position, or status.

Here are a few tips on how to strengthen your motivation, so you can achieve whatever it is you want.

1. Set a goal

You will need to know exactly what it is that you want. This will create a clearer image in your mind, and you will be able to focus on your goal more easily.

2. Split your goal into several minor goals

If you have a major goal, it would be a good idea if you split it into several minor goals, each small goal leading to your major goal. By dividing your goal into several, smaller goals, you will find it easier to motivate yourself, since you will not feel overwhelmed by the size of your goal and the things you have to do. This will also help you feel that the goal is more feasible, and easier to accomplish.

3. Finish what you start

Understand that finishing what you start is important. Hammer into your mind that whatever you start you have to finish. Develop the habit of going to the finish line.

4. Seek the company of motivated people

Socialize with achievers and people with similar interests or goals, since motivation and positive attitude are contagious. Associate with motivated people, who share your interests. The people can be your motivation model

5. Don’t be a procrastinator

Never procrastinate anything. Procrastination leads to laziness, and laziness leads to lack of motivation.

6. Stay persistent, patient and persevering

Persistence, patience and not giving up, despite failure and difficulties, keep the flame of motivation burning.

7. Reading

Read about the topics of your interest. This will keep your enthusiasm and ambition alive.

Motivation can take you forward a great deal. It is in fact the basis of great successes