The Definition of Motivation
The definition of motivation is the desire and willingness to perform a specific task. For example, the desire you
feel to achieve a goal or the willingness to do something for others. The definition of motivation often includes a
sense of drive to complete something. Motivation can be affected by emotion and personality. The definition of
motivation usually includes two types – intrinsic motivation and extrinsic motivation.
Emotion and Personality
According to the definition of motivation, motivation is not emotion or personality. Motivation can, however, be
affected by both emotion and personality. Negative emotion or a depressive personality can decrease motivation,
while positive emotion or an outgoing personality can increase motivation. For example, if an individual is
depressed due to a death of a loved one, he/she may lack temporarily lack motivation to succeed in his/her job
and/or may lack motivation to do things for others. However, if an individual just got a raise and is feeling good
about himself/herself, he/she may be more motivated to succeed at work and help those around him/her.
Intrinsic Motivation
When considering the definition of motivation, you must look at the two basic types of motivation – intrinsic and
extrinsic. According to the definition of motivation, intrinsic motivation is motivation that comes from within. It
is the motivation that you feel when you want to do something for enjoyment, not for reward. When you want to work
on a hobby, you are intrinsically motivated. It is important to have intrinsic motivation in order to enjoy your
life. If external (or extrinsic) rewards are introduced to an activity that was intrinsically motivated, you may
lose the enjoyment of the activity as your motivation shifts.
Extrinsic Motivation
According to the definition of motivation, the second type of motivation is extrinsic motivation. This is
motivation by reward. When feel compelled to complete an activity to win or earn a reward, you are extrinsically
motivated. Working to earn money or competing to win an award are both examples of extrinsic motivation. The line
between intrinsic motivation and extrinsic motivation is sometimes blurry. For example, if you are competing in a
competition that you both enjoy and want to win an award, which motivation are you driven by?
Lack of Motivation
When thinking about the definition of motivation, it is important to think about what happens
when there is a lack of motivation. When motivation is lacking, goals may not be reached and productivity
decreases. You may find yourself beginning to lose motivation, and then find that a series of small events plummets
your motivation level too low. For example, you may not be motivated to excel at work, which may lead to a falling
job performance. Lack of motivation is usually a product of negative emotion or personality. This state is usually
temporary and fixes itself. However, sometimes you may need to seek professional help to find motivation.
Psychologists can help under-motivated individuals find motivation through psychological therapy or drug therapy.
With a little bit of help, your motivation may begin to feel closer to the ideal definition of motivation.
Increased Motivation
When you feel like the ideal example of the definition of motivation, you will find that your productivity is
increased and your desire to succeed is elevated. When motivation is increased, you will meet your goals and find
yourself to be generally happier and more successful. You may find it easy to reach goals and it might please you
to do things for others. If you find your level of motivation start to slip, find a way to rebound and regain your
motivation to maintain a positive attitude and accomplish your goals.
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