A Brief Look at Motivation

There are numerous widely debated studies, theories and models on this topic, all with pros and cons. My aim is not to dissect them to find an “absolute”, but rather to identify the whys, wherefores and compounding benefits of regular responsive motivation versus spasmodic, knee jerk reaction based motivation.

The workplace and home / life quality have changed dramatically since many of those theories were first written. Although certainly not all, the hierarchical structure has disappeared from many organizations, and more and more people are enjoying a degree of empowerment. That aside, the digital age has provided opportunities of self-motivation for many budding entrepreneurs seeking fulfillment outside of the traditional work environment.

What is that Motivates People?

• Salary and benefits?
• Security?
• Good working relationships?
• Development opportunities?
• Promotion Opportunities?
• Something completely random?

Interestingly, it´s a question that many of us get wrong when asked about what we think motivates others. Quite often, what we think people want is what we think they should want based on what we know about them.

Ask yourself this question:

Do you have all the information you need to correctly assess a person´s motivational state?

Our assumptions around the needs of others and our performance and behavioural expectations of them is often disastrously low and wrong.

Life's Cycles

At the age of 21 my motivational needs were considerably different than they are now at the age of let's just say 21 plus tax (a considerable amount of tax). With diverse backgrounds, interests and circumstances, people's motivational needs will always vary and change with time.

Without getting into the realms of debating motivational theories, life is changing at a terrifically fast pace. The digital age has opened up a world of new possibilities and opportunities. Many people are staying in the same role in the same workplace for much shorter periods of time.

What are your thoughts?