What is Motivation and What Motivates You? by Ananya Singh

What is Motivation and What Motivates You?

Studying for a test, doing the dishes, and making your bed are all tasks that you would not usually want to do. If we never got these things done, there would be a big problem on our hands. However, thanks to motivation these tasks are completed. But what exactly is motivation and what about it pushes us to do things? 

Motivation is described as goal directed behavior. In other words, motivation causes us to behave in a way that fulfills a goal. There are a few theories as to why motivation exists. Some psychologists say that it is an instinct. It is an inborn mechanism due to natural selection as it helped us survive as a species. The Drive-Reduction theory states that internal tensions “push” toward satisfying basic needs. A drive is an internal state of tension that encourages and motivates an organism to do things that reduces that tension. Humans try to maintain homeostasis and motivation helps us do that. Our basic needs include hunger and thirst. For example, we drink when we are thirsty. Another theory is the incentive theory which states that an external goal can encourage behavior. There are extrinsic incentives and intrinsic incentives. Extrinsic incentives include things like money and fame and focuses on external factors. On the other hand, intrinsic incentives include things like personal achievement. It focuses on internal factors.

There are many things that can motivate you. Friends, family, and food are all examples. However, from time to time everyone feels unmotivated. Luckily, there are ways to get through this. One approach is to regularly set goals. This way you can keep track of your progress and not lose sight of where you are headed. Keeping yourself surrounded with positive people helps tremendously, as well. These people understand you and encourage you to follow your passions. Your better understanding of motivation can help you tackle countless problems in the future!