Your Motivational Mix: What Keeps You Going?

Do you ever wake up to face a seemingly endless list of things to get done, with no drive to do any of them?

Your problem may be an over-busy life that has you fatigued and overwhelmed. Or perhaps you are required to keep up with demands imposed by others which bring you little sense of reward.

Another explanation may be that you don’t understand fully what motivates you to move toward the goals and tasks before you. There is insufficient reinforcement for you to keep setting goals, applying energy to them, and persevering until you have accomplished them.

This can lead to a sense of futility and a depressed mood.

Motivation is an aspect of behavioral psychology that has been well-examined in the literature because of its importance to human functioning, productivity, creativity, and thriving.

Basic categories of motivation

Theories of motivation start with three broad categories; intrinsic, extrinsic, and transcendent.

Intrinsic motivation comes from within, bringing a sense of personal satisfaction.
Extrinsic motivation is external, exemplified by monetary reward or praise from others, or power over others.
Transcendent motivation involves contributing to a higher cause or purpose, for the betterment of others, or making the world a better place.

A literary illustration

A short fable by Ricardo Semler illustrates these distinctions:

Three stonecutters were asked about their jobs. The first said he was paid to cut stones. The second replied that he had developed skills to shape stones excellently and enjoyed using this skill. The third stone cutter just smiled and said: “I build cathedrals.”

The first, with extrinsic motivation, viewed stonecutting as merely a job that paid his bills. The second, with intrinsic motivation, found inner gratification in his achievements. The third expressed transcendent motivation, believing he was creating something of enduring beauty and majesty. They all showed up for work but with different motivations.

A few sub-categories of motivation

• Some people are change-makers, passionate about changing the world for the better. They like to fix problems and influence societal attitudes and behaviors.
• Others are strongly motivated by a need for belonging. We are social creatures. We seek situations where we will be accepted and appreciated. Many people will work for less money than they could earn elsewhere because of a good relational fit with their co-workers.
• Individuals with strong leadership traits may be motivated by competition. While this may stir up negative connotations, competition can drive us to do our best and stand out as role models.
• Most of us have at least a sprinkling of fear in the mix. As long as it does not become unhealthy perfectionism or obsessive need for approval, a little bit of the fear of failure or disapproval may motivate us toward high standards.

Combinations of motivators

Most people are motivated by a combination of factors, influenced by personality, temperament, upbringing, and education.

When we discussed the topic of motivation in my psychology classes, I cited myself as an example of a person with a mixed set of motivators.

Extrinsic motivators. I told my students that though my teaching salary was not high, I wouldn’t be teaching them if the college refused to pay me for my time and effort.

I also was concerned about gaining the respect and approval of my students and colleagues. And I wanted the teaching credential on my resume to enhance my career trajectory.

Intrinsic motivators. Then I told the students that even though I was paid for my position, I wouldn’t teach if I didn’t enjoy teaching. It gives me satisfaction to use the talents I’ve developed and share my life experience.

As I progressed in my role, it was important for me to continue learning, developing my competence and expertise, and achieving new goals. I enjoyed finding imaginative, creative ways to present the information to make the class more enjoyable for everyone, including me.

Transcendent motivators. Finally, I told them that I believe it is important to impart knowledge, wisdom, and encouragement to younger generations. I wanted them to learn things that would make their lives better, and I was proud to be part of a large system of professionals devoted to this purpose.

Motivation Essential Reads

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As my example illustrates, achievement, competence, skill-building, contributing, serving others, creativity, conscientiousness, personal growth--and yes, getting paid and recognized for our efforts—can all work synergistically to keep us motivated.

What is your motivational mix?

Here are some questions and suggestions to explore what motivates you:
• Think of times when you worked on a long-term goal and brought it to completion. What kept you going, especially when it was hard? Was it the pay, the interaction with peers, the inner satisfaction of a job well done, the pride in contributing, or some other factor?
• Do you prefer to work alone, or do you seek help and support from others? Do you invite feedback and affirmation from others?
• Are you intrinsically motivated to achieve and accomplish things? Do you make lists and enjoy crossing tasks off your list when you’ve completed them?
• Are you a volunteer? Do you find satisfaction simply in knowing you’ve helped others?
• Do you often compare yourself to others? Are you driven to be the best, the brightest, the strongest, the fastest, or the richest? Are you competitive?
• Do you like to lead and exert authority over others, to be the one in control?

There are no right or wrong answers to these questions. It is important to be honest in our self-appraisal to reinforce healthy patterns and reward ourselves appropriately.

Once you have identified your primary motivators, it is helpful to speak with a counselor or coach and go deeper in your understanding of the nuances of your motivational needs. This will allow you to create systems of reinforcement that are in line with what naturally keeps you going.

To find a therapist, visit the Psychology Today Therapy Directory.