What motivates us to do
things that we do? Why do we think and behave as we do? What influences people to do what they do? The word "motivation" means different things to different people. One thing for sure is that you can't buy a jar of it: it has to come from within yourself. A person's brain needs constant motivational input just as muscles need exercise, engines need petrol and plants need water.I used to think that motivation was a slick American fad and that it wasn't for me. After all, I was very motivated already!
People are product of their thoughts and aim of motivational material is to improve quality of your thoughts. Motivation is nothing more than encouragement and we all perform better for it. Friends of mine say that I am a good motivator, because I simply encourage others.
"We become what we think about all day long." - Emerson
"Most people think only what everybody else is doing." - Earl Nightingale
The road to achievement starts with a goal. Implant that goal in your mind and think about it all day long. I am doing that with this manuscript and my goal is to have it published and be an author. I think I have taken right action steps so far, so that I eventually reach my target. Pay price by making sacrifices. Take small steps towards your goal every day, instead of occasional bursts of activity.
The principal difference between average person and one who is highly successful seems to be in degree of his or her personal motivation. Motivation is hidden power in successful person's arsenal and is key ingredient for success. Most people, I believe are motivated or have potential if they are aroused and interested in activity.
However, one thing is for sure: It is not something someone else can give you. It must be self-generated from within; it is not external "RA RA" hype. In other words, motivation is an inner energy, rather than a fire lit by others.
Strong motivation also stems from a deep rooted belief in what you are trying to do; it is strongest when it comes from your inner values. This creates a feeling of ENTHUSIASM which is essential in order to remain motivated. Look at zeal of a missionary or a Jehovah's Witness. The best salesmen are those who get very excited about and have total faith in their products. They sell with a firm conviction that their product is best available.
WHAT ARE THE MAIN SOURCES OF MOTIVATION?
What influences people to do as they do? There are many diverse influences. It is difficult to pin-point which one is most important, but some factors are as follows: different cultures, social environment and biological influences (e.g..hunger, thirst) in work and in play. Other influences are our thoughts, our perceptions. Everyone is different and unique, so there are great individual differences in our drives.
There are two main sources of motivation: What will happen if you do? What will happen if you don't? For example, your doctor advises you to give up smoking. If you do, you will feel better and live longer; if you don't your health is going to deteriorate. Both sources (and implications) are equally powerful.
There is a strong correlation between motivation and achievement. Highly motivated people are nearly always achievers. Thrillseekers like sky-divers and stuntmen often need to do life threatening activities to keep them motivated. Danger gives them pleasure and keeps them motivated.
Why do we work? Is it just for money or is money merely a short-term issue? I am personally not motivated by money. I prefer interesting and exciting work that offers a challenge and opportunity for personal growth. Others may feel need for affiliation or to contribute to society. In following chapter there is an exercise on this.
