Motivation is a psychological function that is related to emotions but is distinct from them. When it comes to other animals, motivation is almost identical to or inseparable from instinct. For example, predators like wolves and lions motivated to hunt primarily by hunger. Motivation tends to become complex as an organism’s intellectual capacity increases, as in apes and humans.

human motivation

When it comes to humans, motivation is directly related to success in achieving difficult but desirable and rewarding goals. Stronger motivation is needed as the goal becomes more challenging and as competitors. Outstanding students, champion athletes, celebrities, and powerful politicians are just a few examples of high achievers whose successes are directly related to their strong motivations.

It may seem like opportunities and talents are the main factors for success, but without strong motivation all of these can easily go to waste. Many successful people are not necessarily the most intelligent or talented, but they have the right attitude. Successful people always see opportunities even in times of initial difficulties and failures.

Motivation is an important topic in any competitive and productivity-oriented environment. It is a crucial issue at work. It is a complex subject that has many variables, making it difficult to describe and sustain.

Many psychologists, management experts, and sociologists attempt to classify and define motivation; These are some of the main theories.

1.) Incentive Theory of Motivation: Gaining something beneficial or desirable is the fundamental assumption of this theory. This theory emphasizes extrinsic rewards as the main reason people are motivated to perform specific actions. It is the proverbial carrot that hangs at the end of a stick. It is clear that people tend to be motivated if they see the prospect of rewards, such as additional monetary incentives or bonuses for performing a difficult task at work.

2.) Escape Search Dichotomy Model: This model attempts to describe people’s motivation in terms of the dichotomy between escape and search. For example, someone who is poor may want to escape the unfavorable situation but at the same time fight or seek better opportunities.

3.) Pulse Reduction Theory: As its name implies, the theory emphasizes the intrinsic biological and psychological drives that must be satisfied. Strong urges will involve strong motivation or behavioral modifications aimed at satisfying the urge, thus reducing its intensity. A person who is already at the peak of success in a particular field may already find doing the same things boring and may seek other goals.

4.) Necessity Theory: This theory is based on the idea of ​​the hierarchy of needs. He emphasized the concept of optimizing resources and efforts to meet specific needs. This is actually a broad theory that includes Herzberg’s two-factor theory, Alderfer’s ERG theory, and self-determination theory.